Virtuoso Bass: Issue 4 - The Founding Four
Virtuoso Bass – Issue 4: The Founding Four
In this landmark issue of Virtuoso: Bass, we explore the musicians who helped define the language of jazz fusion bass. Stanley Clarke, Jaco Pastorius, Bunny Brunel, and Jeff Berlin did more than influence the instrument, they reshaped its role in modern music.
Issue 4 examines the artistry, innovations, and lasting impact of these four architects through historical commentary, instrument-focused analysis, and archival perspective on the evolution of electric bass in the fusion era.
This issue also features the column “Bunny Brunel Moments,” reflections on the craft of bass performance, and the debut of “Bass Blunders,” a look at the lessons musicians learn along the way.
The Classic Fusion Album Reviews revisit three pivotal recordings that helped shape the sound of the era:
• Hot Rats – Frank Zappa
• Spaces – Larry Coryell
• Metal Fatigue – Allan Holdsworth
Additional features include Miroslav Vitouš, Cindy Blackman Santana, Hilliard Wilson, La Bella Strings, Starr Cullars, and other voices contributing to the continuing evolution of the bass.
Published by KL Publishing Group, Virtuoso: Bass is written for musicians, historians, and listeners who understand that the bass is not merely the foundation of the band—it is a voice capable of defining the music itself.
