Thundercat: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

Oct. 18, 2017 | Bobby Carter -- Thundercat, born Stephen Bruner, is willing and able to shape-shift to fit into just about any box you show him - he just won't stay in there for long. Whether fusing his talent for jazz while a bassist with punk legacy act Suicidal Tendencies or as a member of Snoop Dogg's band - maybe running a little too far with a solo here and there - the focus seems to eventually drift his way.
After releasing two brilliant solo albums, he was plucked to work on what eventually became one of the most important works of art released this decade: Kendrick Lamar's To Pimp A Butterfly. Capitalizing off of the new exposure, he quickly released the EP The Beyond/Where the Giants Roam. That was followed about two years later by Drunk, his most solid project to date.
I didn't know what to expect in the days leading to the performance, but I was hoping to get what I thought a Thundercat experience would be like. All boxes ended up checked: He arrived wearing a neon pink hoodie with his signature logo plastered about, kickboxing shorts, white chancletas, playing a Nintendo portable gaming console. He and his bandmates Dennis Hamm, Justin Brown and Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, all master musicians in their own right, polished off some bacon croissant sandwiches and proceeded to give us three of the best of what Drunk has to offer.
Set List
"Lava Lamp"
"Friend Zone"
"Them Changes"
MUSICIANS
Steven Bruner (vocals, bass); Dennis Hamm (keys); Justin Brown (drums); Miguel Atwood Ferguson (violin)
CREDITS
Producers: Bobby Carter, Morgan Noelle Smith; Creative Director: Bob Boilen; Audio Engineer: Josh Rogosin; Videographers: Morgan Noelle Smith, Maia Stern, Alyse young; Production Assistant: CJ Riculan; Photo: Jennifer Kerrigan/NPR.
For more Tiny Desk concerts, subscribe to our podcast: www.npr.org/podcasts/510292/ti...

[@nprmusic]

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[@focat]

crazy

[@BennyC023]

This band looks like they randomly got assigned together for a group project at school

[@kuchesezik]

and they practiced for 72 hours straight before performing?

[@gdfrailey]

Tru tru

[@phillyb8347]

And wearing clothes from the lost and found bin!

[@brennanwinitana8721]

Are you hearing what I'm hearing tho? or....your just to distracted😕

[@gearywimberly4783]

Forgive them for not recognizing a Motherfucking genius.

[@aw_shucks17]

this looks like a gta online lobby

[@pepedomingo4061]

ray ray mccloud II facts

[@4dhyperglizzy174]

Whooooooooooooooooooooooooo

[@davisrobbins6824]

lol

[@RichardCodyMusic]

Funniest thing I've read all day. That said, this group friggin awesome.

[@47thRONIN]

Anybody know what type of hoodie/brand he's wearing

[@natedavid3873]

Props to that violinist. Dude just adds so much vibe and mood in the background. Such a cool way to use the instrument

[@hanoimenace]

Really he drew all of my attention away from Thundercat

[@intoxxy]

Always need ambience haha

[@jamisondanielmusic]

Agreed. That reverb out string is just bliss

[@boujeemelon7305]

He's a genius. Miguel Atwood Ferguson

[@suenitos816]

Dude was driling cheeks with the violin

[@theodoornap9283]

me, listening to the studio version: no way the licks are that good live the licks, live:

[@TheSonofbuckethead1]

The licks live : 💪

[@peepawsmethstash9743]

the licks are even better live man, he just goes completely insane

[@mississippijohnfahey7175]

Yeah I saw him at an outdoor concert and I think he blew about a thousand people's minds

[@ajunseth4047]

😭😭😭😭😭

[@lisabee4865]

SAw him last year -- the show was FIRE. highly recommend.

[@TimothyGondola]

Can we give a Grammy to the Tiny Desk audio engineer? The quality is insane.

[@days5516]

amen

[@william4661]

Can you explain for a noob?

[@TimothyGondola]

@@william4661 it's really hard to get a good balanced, clean and crisp sound when you're recording so many instruments, and voice! So it takes special talent to get the job done.

[@OchoIgualBe]

@@TimothyGondola NAH. All instruments go by line. Only drums and voices go by (GREAT) mics and all sing peacefully. No big deal. Listen drum cymbals at 3:26... sounds like... not sooo good.

[@JoePepo]

@@OchoIgualBe tru.. those cymbals arent really that good

[@BreakingOKC]

Dude was talkin bout diablo and shredding on a 6 string bass instant fan

[@danielworks]

hahahahahahah

[@ripper3020]

same bro

[@inspectorbudget]

Yes!

[@elliottortega4794]

Gave me chills. I had to play it back to check if he was serious.

[@chrisram15]

Then he started talking about mortal kombat. LEGEND

[@Kid_Ying]

"If you're not bringing tacos I suggest you turn and walk away." Truth to double meaning.

[@ElGuapo4000]

No one: Thundercats bass during his solo in ‘Them Changes’: *bleepbloopbleebloopbleepiddybloopbleowweowwowwibllybloop*

[@qplaqpla]

With a splash of boom bom bwow, boom bom bwowwww

[@MediHusky]

It's more like Diddly wo diddly but fast.

[@qplaqpla]

@@MediHusky nah

[@MediHusky]

If you listen to Black Qualls it actually is that. It's in the lyrics.

[@qplaqpla]

@@MediHusky idk what black qualls is but its not a song that got played on this video so who cares

[@cronotrigger1363]

He has the lyrics of a 5th grade love letter. Bass skills of a transformer.

[@Vmoore24]

Most astute observation of all time! I'm over crying from laughter!

[@quiettimegaming3642]

Back when we didn't have any emotional pretenses and could literally say exactly what we were thinking without a more evolved perception and interpretation of how we come across to others causing us to alter how we interact across to the adult world in our need to be taken seriously? Despite the fact that most people's needs really don't amount to much more than those of a 5th grader's anyways because we're all emotionally stunted and are overly concerned with outside perception and acceptance? I wish we could all be that honest.

[@matthewcabassa8791]

😂😂😂😂

[@jamiedevlin8536]

Friend zone is literally just a child wrote it “ cos id rather play mortal kombat anyway”

[@alexs6250]

@@quiettimegaming3642 yes. that.

[@haydenhollenbaugh3958]

Thundercat: "what should we wear??" NPR: "Anything. Be comfortable." Thundercat: "You got it."

[@benjaminkenobi21]

Astute observation

[@phillipschristoph]

hahahahaha

[@TheWellnessAbbey]

lolllllllllllllll

[@McMarvin42]

HAHAHA it took me a while to notice those shorts. What a legend.

[@03lisajade]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@austins.2495]

I almost gave up on life lately. Discovering Thundercat and his music has provided me some sort of energy that I needed to continue on, and I am eternally grateful for that.

[@knittedkit]

❤️

[@kevinmetta1193]

❤️

[@aneshaberry5901]

Dude, you're needed and wanted. So glad you decided to keep going! Get into Free Nationals, Flying Lotus, and Kamasi Washington, too!

[@mharm1017]

Giving thanks for your life...

[@JarodJesus]

❤

[@luvjudy]

These lyrics sound like the songs I sing to myself while doing chores or singing songs to my dog while making her plate. “Your gonna eat all your food. Cause your such a gooood girrrrl.” Lol

[@curtisjacksons3027]

Hahahah I do the same 🤣

[@lb1798]

THAT IS HILARIOUS...AND True🤣😂🤣😂🤣😅😆😂

[@mimmikibilly]

I feel less alone now 😂

[@unkosheredpodcast]

Tiny desk is like our generation’s MTV Unplugged

[@billbailey8628]

Nah where is the alice in chains equivalent

[@N053LESS]

Indeed

[@3firstnames903]

But plugged

[@terrickturner6425]

I never thought of it like that, but you right!

[@davlmt]

@@3firstnames903 Buttplugged?

[@jed_the_artist]

their drummer looks like he's never seen a drum-kit before in his entire life and he's making it up as he goes and is just accidentally doing a fantastic job

[@inspectorbudget]

Lol, I see that hat

[@bozziofan01]

Dude Justin brown is literally one of the most insane drummers on the scene right now

[@cmshottie62]

He is just to experience, focused, and chillen that is how people look when they are insanely talented

[@tateekblad2362]

john mcnamara thanks fo sayin it for me😘

[@DJRAKKK]

Hes SO LAID BACK AND HIS FOOTGAME IS ICE COLD!

[@leonprowse5806]

And now Thundercat is part of the official Star Wars Canon. I've seen everything

[@comicbookprodigy995]

Absolute shame that they didn't let him play in the Cantina Band with Max Rebo. I wanna see Thundercat play the Mos Eisley Mix.

[@alyxzia8994]

he does have a darth vader tattoo on his left hand lol

[@leonprowse5806]

@@alyxzia8994 I got some bad news for ya, thats the Autobots logo from Transformers, but I can definitely see our friend Darth when its upside down!

[@alyxzia8994]

@@leonprowse5806 oh snaps. That definitely looks like Vader to me 🤣 thanks for the info!!!

[@calebbilti538]

@@comicbookprodigy995 he plays in Mod Parlour on the soundtrack

[@luigii9547]

He just casually dropped one of the best solos I’ve ever heard

[@jamesgibbs3668]

It’s his job

[@deth3234]

​@@jamesgibbs3668Doesn't make it any less impressive

[@RexPerfection]

he does these every song when you see him live- its insane

[@caeserdorkusmallorkus5969]

@@jamesgibbs3668 Roy Keane, is that you?

[@JeddAhyoung]

So I'm a bassist; been playing for about ten years, and I play a six-string Ibanez myself. I love it, but sometimes I feel as though I haven't progressed to where I want to be. This video made me see why I haven't, and realize the error of my ways. 1.) Always use an envelope filter and an octaver. 2.) If you aren't wearing a pink hoodie with shorts, you'll never get to where you want to be. Enlightenment is bliss.

[@TonyMontana-bv7bx]

You're Thinking Too Much --In The Wrong Direction

[@madhattermd1]

Hindsight is 20/20 my guy.

[@carlob2409]

gotta be muay thai shorts, my dude. that's the secret.

[@islam_______5888]

Them gotta be muay thai shorts

[@Funkojazzist]

@@islam_______5888 he is a thaiger

[@jakegetscake4672]

People cry about mtv unplugged being gone but this is it in a new form enjoy

[@semyaza555]

unplugged was better tho...

[@jglumi]

hahahah yeah, NPR is the new MTV Unplugged

[@yolandamcgill6460]

Facts🎯

[@semyaza555]

Unplugged was WAYYYYY better.

[@thirtyyearoldmulberryfield]

Man forget Unplugged, these are the internet's version of the Peel Sessions

[@xarealpersonx]

His bass playing is absolutely next level. I have been playing for over a decade and I'm not even close to his ability AND HE DOES IT WHILE SINGING.

[@camilomunozschuler531]

Is crazy that he sings so well while doing that with the bass 🤯

[@RaulTeodoro1989]

We need ‘It is what it is’ thundercat on tiny desk NOW

[@Fryiez]

Facts

[@2bin]

Fun fact: Thundercat's falsetto is a result of the pain caused by holding bass chords too long.

[@MaladyKayjo]

2bin makes sense

[@ninnananna7307]

Really???👀

[@DazzaDirect]

Fun Fact: Thundercat was too poor to buy a bass so he made his own from a regular guitar Fun Fact: Thundercat was so poor he decided to play the keyboard at the same time on his fake guitar to save money Fun Fact: Thundercat owns the richest music in the world

[@Unstable_Luis]

@@DazzaDirect are these really all facts, sir?

[@Thomas.harding]

2bin hahaha

[@mmitch]

0:00 Lava Lamp 3:20 Friend Zone 6:31Them Changes

[@Mumra2K]

Thank you so much, Mitch.

[@mmitch]

@@Mumra2K No worries, glad i could help! (:

[@vanrobinson5446]

THANK YOU

[@yusrina1466]

Thanks!

[@declansmith7079]

thankyou kind stranger

[@dewilew2137]

Can’t believe this guy showed up in sweat pants and a powder blue tiger t-shirt. But, of course he did.

[@RobFeldkamp]

As opposed to a pink hoodie with boxershorts?

[@jaylispwalker3773]

Legend

[@dewilew2137]

@@RobFeldkamp are those boxers?! I didn’t even notice. 😅

[@rosedemai1230]

That's how I take out trash 😂💙

[@ekimfehc]

​@@rosedemai1230 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@egabbor]

I've known about Thundercat for about 20 minutes now, but I'm here to stay. Love the bass tone in this one.

[@justinwarthen]

Hope you’re still enjoying!!!

[@gnaagren]

Man... Jazz is never really dead. All the coolest cats have their Jazz roots.

[@nursebridgie]

gnaagren yeepppppp and I love it!

[@mathewpando6195]

Check out Synyster Gates (from Avenged Sevenfold) - Gypsy Jazz, even if you’ve never heard of him it’s pretty stunning

[@aizins3420]

@MiNd Of MaVeRiCk indeed

[@Big12tuba17]

Henceforth the name Thundercat ;)

[@davisrobbins6824]

amen brother

[@benbriones4513]

When you realize he’s wearing the same shorts from the Dragon Ball Durag video

[@teitchi6646]

Sadly they’re not but they’re still the tuffest shorts in the game

[@Altiebella]

That's Hilarious, Gotta Love this dude!

[@kanyebreast6062]

He always where those shorts I saw them live, all the Anderson .paak he wore the same shorts lol

[@alandalehoward3]

actually he's not. but close

[@Carter-pl9ll]

He does still smell good tho

[@diafenix]

8:44 - the bromance, the smiles, the question without words, the approval: "...yes, you go Thundy, it's all you" said Dennis to Stephen just with his eyes and a nod.

[@SUBZER0GREEN]

How do you feel about this comment 1 year later

[@diafenix]

@@SUBZER0GREEN such a random question! ...I feel the comment stands true, I feel they have a strong musical bond, so words are not needed. Myself, I am heavily depressed. Wish you are well!

[@V.3__]

@@SUBZER0GREENHow do you feel about this comment 1 year later

[@caerulemusic]

that violinist is the closest thing to an ancient roman in modern day clothing i've ever seen

[@bingobango3397]

I remember having a vague memory of a guy in pink saying bitch don't kill my vibe and at last I have found him once again

[@Shannon-yl6dn]

imightbe canadian I’m making bitch don’t kill my vibe 2019 motto 🤣

[@johnsherfey3675]

@@Shannon-yl6dn kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZCooJhtjtmGfKs

[@martinaraneri8387]

Loool

[@jefferyhawkins8736]

😂

[@nadzsharp7058]

I love this comment 🤣👌🏾

[@berke2336]

Thundercat must have the wrist strength of a thousand men to be able to BAR CHORD A BASS

[@Nullllus]

Being stuck in the friend zone may have helped.

[@MrKiingpin]

Nullll1111 heh gotem

[@ataconazi]

he uses really low action and thin strings

[@butterdrool991]

VSM_Jailhouse lol no he has high action and heavy gauge look at him dig bro, he got a ramp cause he digs so hard

[@japas]

VSM_Jailhouse is right. He uses flatwounds and very low action

[@esseen100]

I love how the quartet sings the chorus of "Lava Lamp" together with their eyes closed. It shows such respect for what was created. Music is the great unifier.

[@Zedreyy]

Who's here after our boy won a Grammy?

[@wordansroom]

you know it! hope you have a great day, man.

[@paloma5082]

i didnt even know this guy had a daughter until then O_O his mom looks so sick too bro

[@ohdippity]

Before, during and after the Grammy!

[@DonArmandoRobles]

Me

[@chillyb4346]

Pre Grammy listener here..

[@Thedeanoeverton]

Pink hoodie with his own logos and a pair of muay thai shorts is the best stage costume I've ever seen

[@ladyshandbagorpurse6090]

Dean this HaHaHa!! His attire is fuck'n hilariously awesome!

[@Kloppsserialbottlers]

There's always one.. tyvek05 fuck off lad.

[@nazsalabarria860]

Technically that logo is thunder cats logo which he has appropriated as his own .

[@SchmegmaOnToast]

He actually has those shorts as part of his merch, when he's on tour

[@quickP76]

Oh man I want that hoodie!

[@MM-vs2et]

Violinist - Band geek who just woke up Drummer - Goto weed dealer after 2 blunts Bassist/Vocals - Closet virtuoso coming out Keyboardist - Music nerd that makes 24/7 chillhop for studying

[@heleciamarie]

🤣🤣🤣

[@Sumitsu02]

HAHAHA! True sh*t!!

[@rhyannonjovan3504]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@pavanflow8492]

So apt

[@sianavassileva403]

I already said "best comment" to somebody higher in the section but now you two compete

[@buttturkeyclips4891]

Not only is the audio excellent, the camera work is too. Love how at 8:47 thundercat looks at the pianist as if to ask him “should I do a solo?” And then he nods. Not only does the camera man capture this moment, he then puts two and two together and does a close up on thundercat while he solos.tiny desk is probably the best music show on KZbin.

[@ElPalomo]

this is probably the most original and unique sound I've heard. This is from another planet.

[@tonydynamite33]

Totally agree!!

[@danieljohnston3290]

The way the pianist nodded at Thundercat before he did his solo for the last song literally makes my heart want to explode... 8:45

[@xzcsdf9574]

"alright, do your thing. I'm here"

[@kpkost]

Watch the Mac Miller Tiny Desk. When What’s the Use comes on, literally every band member smiles in disbelief at some point in the song

[@bethwatts2408]

Kpkost - as a music nerd, I can tell you it’s because of all the dicking around!

[@bryanewyatt]

"Go get it, man."

[@FunkadelicPancho]

Dennis Hamm on the keys, dude is a beast

[@tommieberryjr.3843]

bro these casual/disgusting runs at 5:56-5:59, 6:40-6:49, 7:14-7:16, 7:56-8:00, 8:10 and the solo during them changes are mind numbing.

[@niclacy4048]

are you kidding me??? these are amazing!!!!! my eyes almost popped out of my skull!

[@basielu]

@@niclacy4048 disgusting is a good thing

[@aliasanew3398]

Cheeeeeeeeeeezus 🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯

[@altitudechallenged]

Thundercat is a filthmonger. So disgusting I could smell his runs from here 💕

[@cassiea13245678]

Have y’all seen Tash Sultana’s tiny desk? If you appreciate nasty runs it’s a must watch

[@joaopedroandrade2576]

I dont think ive ever seen someone shred on a bass like that, it really blew my mind, you gotta respect the strength on those finger

[@Abaddon231]

Wow!...this is like progressive funk, super cool bass sounds... He is an amazing session musician and I remember when he was playing bass for Suicidal Tendencies.. I love flexible, creative musicians like this!

[@DannySullivanMusic]

you're right. 1000% spot on.

[@veggietempura9594]

Imagine hearing music the way thundercat does

[@jaydenlhaubouet6638]

Veggie Tempura what you mean

[@Malaan7]

That would be dope! ❤

[@DazzaDirect]

@@jaydenlhaubouet6638 Fun Fact: Thundercat was too poor to buy a bass so he made his own from a regular guitar Fun Fact: Thundercat was so poor he decided to play the keyboard at the same time on his fake guitar to save money Fun Fact: Thundercat owns the richest music in the world

[@jaydenlhaubouet6638]

Dazza Direct My nigga 👊🏾

[@slinkhex8461]

I'd be crying everyday due to how beautiful it is

[@erinarzich2223]

them changes is one of the best songs to ever exist

[@steeved.911]

I prefer that version over the single version, more groovy x)

[@sergioskomolo8717]

Agreed.

[@mosethegreat7415]

Facts

[@TroubleZxHCT]

So much funk

[@peepawsmethstash9743]

you should check out some of his other stuff if you haven't! he has a lot of songs like it

[@minjukim8186]

벌써 5년을 듣고 있는거구나. 그럼에도 좋네..

[@jackcox]

Came here for Them Changes - I'm not disappointed.

[@jackfarrell4039]

Violin guy was fucking prepared for this one, "damn right I got my sweat pants and my snow leopard tee and Ima go play some tunes with thundercat for NPR"

[@chicuongvu1806]

He was going all in

[@santiagouribe5831]

Tony Hawk on em keyss you know its firee

[@paulmills5278]

Underrated comment lol

[@muissnoer]

Denzel Washington in incognito modus on the drums.

[@MrSpiritualDesire]

More like shaggy without scooby doo

[@xbmpr]

Looks like Danger Ehren

[@drakkuza]

@@MrSpiritualDesire Thanks, can't unsee that now

[@Cmon_Nah123]

The lyric… I’m gonna throw you in the garbage 🤣. That song is awesome

[@sweatsbarefoot3152]

They look like they've been smoking in the basement for 12 years strait and this is their first time showing off their masterpiece and I love it

[@Opshun1]

Thundercat has crazy talent with the bass. I would love to hear do a collaboration with Jamiroquai and Daft Punk. That would be the track nobody saw coming but everybody needs in their life!

[@alishalee9837]

That would be hot

[@Lorkoification]

Hahah never gonna happen. Their time has passed. And they are mainstream. Thundercat makes fun of everything. Imo he makes fun of them as well. :)

[@runswithphantoms1757]

You, sir, have Vision.

[@DarkAngelEU]

Thundercat with Massive Attack tho !!!

[@AZIZ18691]

Yeah I thought about Jamiroquai too.

[@ketaminewarrior]

Violin-guy is on another level of chill. He simply doesn't care.

[@radicalhenri]

miguel atwood ferguson. he's the man. check out his live performance of fly-lo's drips with thundercat. insane

[@davepsy]

not to mention suite for ma dukes....

[@modifiedcontent]

He also did the string arrangement on Hiatus Kaiyote's The Lung. Thundercat + Miquel Atwood Ferguson + HIatus Kaiyote + Anderson .Paak + Kamasi Washington + Kendrick Lamarr etc.; all one glorious scene saving music for the next decade

[@marie-cecile9092]

Yeah I like his shirt

[@Apemopo]

love - the - pants

[@CASwhow]

As a Thundercat fan for years, this track lineup was edible.

[@w-dad4040]

I'm obsessed with this drummer's vibes

[@GregPoblete]

I think he played every single note on that bass in this video.

[@Mojo56277]

Greg Poblete 😂😂

[@MKNYC_]

Thundercat is so badass, what a crew. Also, when the comment section is way funnier than expected....nice

[@william4661]

Comment section is kind of like mac miller video's, but a lot more lolz and a lot less "RIP in peace buddy". (Love Mac though ofcourse)

[@joeycalderon1556]

No lie, I put this on everyday while I'm at work. But after the first 800 times, I stopped focusing on Thundercat and each time I will focus on one of his bandmates. It's amazing how a 4 piece band can put so many sounds into each song. Today was "check out the keyboardist" day, tomorrow will be "man, that violinist looks like a pottery teacher but he's awesome" day.

[@antoniohill8853]

Thundercat. He's under rated. He's the new era of funk. I haven't heard one track that's trash from him. All his music is dope.

[@Poppaswank]

“Ima throw you in the garbage cuz you play too many games” I truly felt that

[@johnanderson6596]

8:47 Thunder: "yo, can I rip their faces off?" Dennis: "Hell Yeah"

[@pskila]

Pretty much... Instant face melt

[@heycheckthisout2565]

After hearing this, it's hard to imagine he played bass in Suicidal Tendencies.

[@ameixae]

Oh my

[@bwillzzz3432]

thundercat is the grooviest man ever. rhythm lives in his soul

[@xaxabel]

them changes is one of thebest songs ever created

[@twobirdsstonedatonce]

very deceptive though, I always think I'm listening to "it was a good day" at first lol

[@danyDesigns]

Randy G which is actually "Footsteps in the Dark" by Isley Brothers

[@lyricglass2411]

CHEDDY BUNDY 4

[@deebrown4877]

AGREED!!!!!

[@basedjj93]

Facts

[@edanparker8480]

Nobody is gonna talk about the insanity that is 5:56? That was inhuman.

[@noahmcdonald1004]

Bruh but 7:57

[@rancumusic]

Clearly haven't gotten to 8:53 XD

[@phoqyu7580]

Listen to Uh Uh - Thundercat

[@adam__mark]

Dem chops doe. Dayum.

[@quanghung260]

he just playin scales doe

[@brandonarnold3686]

The coldest base player of our time.

[@texgarrett7158]

Thank you Hot Ones for introducing me to Thundercat. 🤘

[@venadacent7696]

Same here!!!

[@mikesmith2586]

If there was one thing I could pound into people’s heads about virtuoso musicians, it’s the colossal amount of time they spend practicing. Every five minute clip you see of someone doing something amazing on an instrument represents 10,000 hours of mind-numbing practice that no one ever sees.

[@jaedii7287]

It's not like they're spending 10,000 hours for each five minute song though. When you get really good, you can learn most songs in under an hour

[@rlbigfish]

Pretty sure this was all from playing 10,000 hours of Diablo.

[@mharm1017]

@@jaedii7287 When reading this response we know this is not a professional speaking. Pros are never satisfied and will shed endlessly.

[@jaedii7287]

@@mharm1017 Yeah I completely agree, the journey to better ones self never ends as you can never hit a peak

[@ronaldwilliams2162]

Truth.

[@Phyligree]

didn't realize it on my first few listens but during the them changes solo the drummer absolutely starts killing it in the backdround to match the pace of Thundercat's scale licks, fucking awesome

[@exactlywhatisaid]

i just clocked that too. maf on the violin shoots him a look at one point like "ooo dayum"

[@elijahhollis1957]

Bro doesn't even break a sweat too

[@bigsexy8473]

And everyone has that nasty face

[@yoda_on_the_perc_30]

The vibes are immaculate, love these guys!

[@1.800zZzZzZz]

Friend Zone is a masterpiece

[@balilobaludo7715]

Thundercat's band looks like one of those "Spot the anime protagonist memes"

[@ShadyProductionsMC]

he is actual main character

[@TheoCynical]

Lol!

[@chuckvincent5691]

Spot the stand user

[@MediHusky]

They're all main characters from different animes. This is just their side gig.

[@sonnyluvzdabud9078]

Thundercat looks like he got Muay Thai class right after the Tiny Desk Concert and his instructor beats him if he's late 😂😂

[@handsomest1]

Sonny LuvzDaBud his instructor is Palpatine

[@bfan82]

right...took me a minute to notice those kumite shorts he had on lol

[@spursfan1080]

His teacher is Appachai...Kenichi gets a break 😅

[@jacobsl3499]

Straight from bed, straight to concert, straight to Muay Thai. Hahahaha

[@niecytorvend9729]

Speaking of mma, keyboard pal's face gives me smol Uriah Faber but at The Office vibez

[@meikamo]

Insane respect to the backing band. Saw them in Boston last night and the energy was absolutely bananas. They don't show off in this performance but good god are they skilled and they brought the perfect vibe to this show as well. Huge huge respect. Just amazing. Goes without saying for thundercat

[@lilhunt111]

🗣️ “Nobody move!”

[@joshw6631]

That solo sounded like the music when you’re on your last lap in Mario kart

[@jhansenhlebica6080]

exactly! jazz for the 80's/90's video game generation.

[@araneaestorm]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@valentinasanchez5757]

That is modern jazz in a nutshell

[@MistressOP]

damn that bass tho.

[@PoliceBoy465]

Needs to be higher in the mix.

[@LydgiaOfHarlem]

As a 56 year old who was looking for something fresh to listen to - here I am. Late to the party but happy to be here.

[@zionchosenone]

One of the best bass players in our generation 🙏🏿🙏🏿

[@TracyAllenVideos]

That laugh after “The Friend Zone”🙌🤣🤣🤣💞

[@grillman7170]

Tracy Allen Somewhat similar to Ron Swanson’s giggle. Love it.

[@doughelms558]

As a 60-something musician just discovering this now: man this is so good and such an original sound!

[@elijahhollis1957]

Welcome, Doug

[@michelebergman4336]

Watch The Mac Miller session ! He plays bass and it’s just Gorgeous musicianship

[@BobRoss-kt4yu]

I’ve got more respect for you than 98% of modern musicians. You should post some of your stuff from the 60s, there isn’t enough music :(

[@agathacathartese7041]

@@BobRoss-kt4yu why does everyone shit on contemporary musicians?

[@SalvvOrtiz]

at 50-something started to listening to different genres of music, and discovered him too. I feel like Bob Ross with such a happy accident.

[@nprmusic]

Tiny Desk Concerts are only possible through donations from our community. This year has been unprecedented but we’ve made sure to keep producing the concerts you love. Show your support with a donation to your local NPR station at n.pr/support-the-tiny-desk

[@jwaj]

No

[@matthewmccormack18]

Get childish gambino on and then we will talk

[@_.Dylan._]

Sorry I’m poor

[@nashawnrocky1055]

I enjoy the drive to have these concerts but I'm broke nd i dont think my currency of money will be accepted but u guys could keep pleasin my ears while i do my homework 😁

[@dustinbonar3316]

We need The Mars Volta!!!

[@ArchWizardCj]

how did Thundercat find a group of extremely talented musicians that look as homeless as he does ?

[@EvonneLindiwe]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@gabryeI]

People who do it for the music dont need to prove it by their appearance

[@ricochetpig]

🔝

[@Izaeusprism]

if you build it they will come

[@user-us6hz7dl2k]

THATS SO MEAn

[@cameronfermoyle3301]

HIATUS KAIYOTE NEXT PLEASE!

[@DeeYeah21]

every one commented about hiatus kaiyote yet npr wasn't ready for our wish

[@_baalshamin]

Cameron Fermoyle YEEEEEESSSSSSS

[@JOAQUINonsunshineLOL]

PLEASE

[@TheLexVaughan]

Given the current timing, probably makes more sense to bring the solo project of Nai Palm (as she is the only one currently touring)

[@Panzer731]

Don't think so. Nai is touring. Maybe just her, that'd be cool to.

[@camilam8778]

I love you all, people in the comment section. Listening to this and reading the comments was quite an experience

[@joelicazaaguilar9849]

Camila M RELATE!

[@princesst30]

This never gets stale. Thundercat is that dude.

[@kronicdeath420]

I Can't explain how everyone in this performance is absolutely purely amazing and mind blowing.

[@FabriGarciaLOTR]

We need Hiatus Kaiyote. Thundercat is such a amazing bass player.😭❤️

[@TK-AM]

aren't they on.... hiatus?

[@FabriGarciaLOTR]

CapnSMoore Really? I’m waiting so long to see them or hear new music by them.

[@TheZombieJC]

Nai Palm just released new music, and it's pretty cool.

[@LuisenGames]

"If you're not bringing Tacos, I suggest you turn and walk awayy" really? xD

[@stardewpanda]

so real.

[@RickyAtoms]

Don't need that negative foodless energy around 😂😂

[@BlckHippy]

No tacos no talk tho

[@TooCoolforCardi]

Luis Enrique Loveras: Could also be looked at as a double-entendre. 😏😉

[@LuisenGames]

@@TooCoolforCardi I never thought that 😏👉👉

[@bryanrodriguez8546]

I’ve never heard any of his song played live and they never sound the same, it’s like you get a different variation of the song every time and I love it

[@jxplay3r729]

The little walk down ridd he does at 6:46 is so insane, I mean the whole song is filled with them, but that one is so quick, and so smooth, but hits so many notes on the way down. The tonality he gives it too it so groovy too. Found out about Thundercat last night and he's already shooting up to the top of some of my favorite artists every. Amazing.

[@FlipperWolf]

8:50 is just insane. Like even when you know how hard it is to be that good you still can't process how good it is

[@orchestrapark]

you should check out domi’s cover of the solo W SHEET MUSIC

[@FlipperWolf]

Where can I check that?

[@PS3aussiegamer]

Discovered Thundercat from Mac Millers (RIP) tiny desk concert and was blown away by his bass playing.... but this, this is something special!

[@Frightex555]

other way round

[@michelebergman4336]

Me too! I totally fell in love with him from the Mac Miller set! He was ready to go on tour with Mac ..when Mac Died!!! WHAT A TERRIBLE TRAGEDY!!! Macs DEATH IS THE TRAGEDY OD THE CENTURY!!

[@luiscamarillo8833]

I didn't even know he played for Mac Miller's set. I gotta check it out now!

[@michelebergman4336]

Luis Camarillo hi it’s nice to meet another Thundercat fan! He reminds me of Stevie Wonder..Circa INNERVISIONS ! I’m dying to see him live & Meet him! Yes the Mac Miller Tiny desk concert was SO MUCH TALENT! Thundercat lost a great FRIEND! That would have been THE MOST HISTORICAL TOUR with Mac Miller😢SUCH A GREAT TRAGEDY!!!! But I LOVE THUNDERCAT! What a COOL DUDE!!! Seriously TALENTED !!!

[@luiscamarillo8833]

@@michelebergman4336 that's exactly what I was thinking! If you like thundercat you should defintely checkout Kamasi Washington hes another exceptionally talented musician that worked with thundercat a lot.

[@b.p.879]

I'm from the future and this is all we listen to.

[@barbermitz]

Be aware talent like this is what some people live for! the bass playing is unreal and the lyrics so tongue in cheek love it!

[@ApocalypseLater8]

0:00 - Lava Lamp 3:20 - Friend Zone 6:30 - Them Changes

[@JJJERS]

Joshua LaMere THANK YOU

[@DumbOzymandias]

Head to toe in his own merch. Legendary

[@arcie3716]

Discovering Thundercat has made my life better

[@benb4728]

I can't get over those 32nd notes at 6:46. I so wish we could have seen his hands during that. Dude just plays insane runs like they're nothing.

[@joelicazaaguilar9849]

5:01 “If u not bringing tacos I suggest you turn and walk away”. Dense

[@sadrans444]

It's no wonder he keeps hanging on to "Them Changes," it must be fun as hell to play

[@DeadWhiteButterflies]

You know a bassline is good as hell when it feels just as satisfying to play it as it is to listen to it , and "Them Changes" is one of them. You shoud haveseen people's faces when those first notes creeped int the room when I saw him live back in March. They lost it as did I and rightly so.

[@jas_bataille]

Why do you think it's called "Them Changes"?! Jazz-joke ;)

[@robertharris7297]

Wow first time hearing these cats. As a 4 string bass player, I love how he plays the 6 String. Very tasty. Makes me want one. Well done 👍