Podcast 125: Mike Watt

You don’t need to be an offset guitar connoisseur to appreciate the beauty of Nels Cline’s beat 1960 Fender Jazzmaster, affectionately dubbed “Watt.” On today’s Fretboard Journal Podcast, we talk to the former owner of that guitar, Mike Watt himself. Watt reflects on his ongoing friendship with Cline, his ownership stint with the Jazzmaster (which was briefly owned by J Mascis before Watt bought it via Rick King at Guitar Maniacs), the Minutemen and more. We ask Watt about the recent release of Ring Spiel Tour ‘95, an amazing live document featuring Watt with Eddie Vedder, Dave Grohl, Pat Smear and William Goldsmith.

Also discussed: D. Boon, EMG pickups, Floored by Four, the Black Gang, a potential signature model Mike Watt bass and more.

Referenced in the discussion:  Nels’ tour diaries: http://hootpage.com/hoot_nelsclamblow1.html  Nels’ tour diaries, pt 2: http://hootpage.com/hoot_nelsshinebox1.html  Nels Cline’s Goo Pedal: http://www.toneconcepts.com/goo/ Watts' Gear: http://www.hootpage.com/hoot_gallery-thudstaffs.html Dos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFrgJBCtCmE Ring Spiel Tour '95: http://amzn.to/2gdyJqj Nikon Coolpix LX830: http://amzn.to/2gdzsaV

Nels Cline is on the cover of the new Fretboard Journal #37, available now. Podcast listeners: Use the coupon code "podcast" when you check out.  https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/collections/all/products/subscription