No Treble Exclusive: How Warren Murrel Keeps the Groove with Robert Jon & The Wreck
Warren Murrel may have grown up in Southern California, but his playing with Robert Jon & The Wreck channels deep Southern grit. The bassist, who started on drums before making the switch, brings a dynamic sense of rhythm and tone to the band’s bluesy, rootsy sound—a vibe he attributes to influences ranging from Family Man Barrett to the jazz-inflected reggae group Groundation.
In this conversation with No Treble’s Kevin Johnson, Murrel reflects on his path to the bass, touring life, and why adaptability matters more than perfection. Though he’s quick to downplay his chops, his thoughtful note placement and deep groove are central to the band’s feel. “I didn’t get the gig because I was a shredder,” he says. “I was just the right fit.”
That attitude extends to his dual role as the band’s bassist and U.S. tour manager. “Everything is 80% right—20% will change the day of the show,” he advises. “You have to roll with it.”
On Heartbreaks and Last Goodbyes, the band worked with heavyweight producer Dave Cobb, embraced no-click recording, and collaborated with writers like John Oates. Murrel’s tone—delivered via a custom Warmoth Jazz Bass with Heepcap pickups, through a Line 6 HX Stomp and Aguilar SL rig—is as dialed-in as his tour logistics.
Currently fresh off the road, Murrel and the band are gearing up for a West Coast run with Samantha Fish and plotting another studio session with Cobb. “You don’t need to be a rock star to make a living doing this,” he says. “You just need to be a good hang, work hard, and keep learning.”
Watch the full interview to hear more of Murrel’s insights on bass playing, gear, touring, and staying grounded in the music.
In his time with No Treble, Kevin has met hundreds of amazing bassists and interviewed icons like Jack Casady, Victor Wooten, Les Claypool, Marcus Miller, and more. He's a gigging bassist performing jazz in Northern Virginia and bluegrass with The Plate Scrapers up and down the East Coast. Kevin appreciates all genres of music, from R&B to metal and everything in between. Connect with Kevin on Facebook and check his performance schedule on his website.
