NAMM Preview: Warwick Adam Clayton Signature Reverso Bass
(ShackMan | Posted 2009-12-31)
For someone who has spent the majority of a 25 year career playing relatively simple and root-oriented basslines for U2, their ancestor group, Feedback, and Automatic Baby, Adam Clayton's recent choice of basses are reminiscent of a late bass player at the opposite end of the spectrum - John Entwistle. The 49-year-old bassist has recently been touring with his new Warwick Signature Reverso bass after years of playing on Jazz Basses and P-Basses (both by Fender and Lakland and all modified with Adam's favorite "lady-like" Jazz Bass neck).
The Adam Clayton Reverso reflects a first-time collaboration between Adam and Warwick. The mahogany body and flamed maple neck ensure a deep, clear sound while the AAAAA quilted maple top, mother of pearl block inlays and matching headstock give it a very classy appearance.
Where Entwistle searched for tone with knobs and dials (just take a look at his signature Alembic bass c.2002 for proof), Clayton's Signature bass remains as simple and sturdy as his playing. A single active MEC P pickup sits right in Adam's "sweet spot" wired to what appears to be a volume and tone control.
Warwick plans to premiere this new bass at the 2010 NAMM show. They aren't listing an expected price, but based on previous signature basses that have sold for well over $5,000, you can expect that it won't come cheap.
James Rushin is a bassist, pianist, organist, composer and writer currently finishing his time at West Virginia University and performing in the Pittsburgh and Morgantown areas.
