Jonathan Colman is a Philadelphia-based bassist, performer, improvisor, composer, and educator. His penchant for groove-based improvisation and effects pedals finds a home in the power trio Muscle Tough, whose octave-switching madness blurs the lines between guitar and bass.
As a sought-after session musician he is known for his stylistic sensitivity, progressive jamming tactics, and ability to see the big picture in the studio.
Colman has a BA in Jazz Performance from Duquesne University. He has been touring and teaching regularly since graduating in 2008. Catch him performing with Muscle Tough, Trap Rabbit, Funk N’ Bowl, Kyle Sparkman, and singing his own comedy-songs.
He recently partnered with Pickup Music to release their first-ever "Bass for Guitarists" learning pathway – designed to accelerate adapting to the low end.
Describe your rig or instrument of choice: Serek basses (4/5/6 strings) outfitted with Zen Blades, Ray Raydecker Cables, every possible pedal ever, and Aguilar amplification.
How did you discover Nordstrand? Designing basses with Jake Serek! I use extended techniques and loads of effects, so clarity and a low-noise floor were of the utmost importance to me. We tired Serek singles, the Big Blades, before finding our… zen.
What Nordstrand products do you use? Why Zen Blades, of course! I have Zen Blades in all my Serek basses. Their unmatched clarity, bold personality, and low-noise floor give me access to everything I love about passive P&J basses in a chic, magnetically coiled package. Once you find your Zen, people will notice! Trust me.
Artists whom with you are currently working: Muscle Tough, Trap Rabbit, Kyle Sparkman, Air is Human, Lust Flower, Px3, Eli Winderman, John Morgan Kimock, Marcus Rezak
Other artists of note whom with you have worked: Ben Arnold, Remember Jones
Find more about Jonathan and his music on the interwebs:
Personal
IG - @Friendshipwizard
Muscle Tough
IG - @Muscletoughband
