Michael Manring

Michael Manring is a seminal figure in the evolution of the electric bass, moving the instrument beyond its traditional role into the realm of solo polyphonic expression. A student of Jaco Pastorius, Manring expanded upon his mentor's fretless innovations by incorporating advanced tapping, harmonics, and mechanical detuning systems.

His long association with Windham Hill Records in the 1980s and 90s placed him at the center of the New Age movement, though his personal aesthetic is far more experimental, often incorporating elements of jazz fusion, progressive rock, and avant-garde composition. His collaboration with luthier Joseph Zon led to the creation of the Hyperbass, an instrument designed specifically for his unique detuning techniques. Critically, he is regarded as one of the most technically proficient bassists in history, yet he is noted for using that technique in service of evocative, atmospheric compositions rather than mere display. His work bridges the gap between the accessible melodicism of Michael Hedges and the dense, intellectual fusion of Tribal Tech.