Josh Manu: From Musical Family Roots to Pro Bassist – Study, Teaching and a Lifelong Passion for Music

Today on the podcast, I'm here with Josh Manu, a genuinely lovely human being, awesome session bassisist, and member of Honey. Join us as we dive into Josh's musical journey, exploring his diverse experiences, his insights on teaching and performing, and his passion for music. In this conversation Josh shares how he started with the bass, growing up in a family of musicians and being thrust into playing in the church scene at a young age. We discuss modes and his recent honours thesis, his exploration of the synth bass, his love of music, playing with family, and much more!Josh's musical journey has seen him collaborate with a wide range of artists and events, including Ben Abraham, Michaela Jayde, Tony Gould, Lanni Zimmer, RnBabe, Uncomfortable Science, Kenny Werner, Vince Jones, and Enrico Rava. After years of performing as a sideman for a wide range of artists, bassist/composer Josh Manu recently made his debut as bandleader on the 10th of November with a gig at Jazzlab. Alongside him were musicians Julien Wilson (Tenor Saxophone), Daniel Waddingham (Guitar), James Bowers (Piano), and Luke Andresen (Drums). His collection of songs are an exploration of the opportunities afforded to musicians through modal jazz, both in improvisation and composition.  Check out his self-titled debut EP, Manu.Through the Monash Sessions, Josh has recorded with renowned jazz artists such as Kenny Werner, Vince Jones, Enrico Rava, Paul Grabowsky, and Mike Nock. In 2023, he completed his Honours at the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA), where he recorded his original composition and wrote his thesis, ‘Where the Tensions Lie: Searching for Emotional Expression through the Colours in the Modes.’Josh regularly performs with well-known Melbourne establishments RnBabe and Uncomfortable Science, showcasing his ability to blend into various musical settings seamlessly.Josh has also been teaching bass to all ages and abilities for eight years, drawing on his breadth of practical experience and completion of a Bachelor of Music at Monash University in the jazz and improvisation stream.For more info and some clips of Josh performing, visit our website:aredrummersmusicians.com