WILCOCK Mullarkey

Short-scale loveliness from the workshop of Viv Wilcock, whose instruments are creating a buzz. Mike Brooks assesses the goods

This bass, a signature model for in-demand session Rob Mullarkey, is designed to his specification, although it should be noted that all Wilcock basses can be customized to the player’s preference. With their distinctive body shape and short scale, Wilcock basses have garnered considerable attention lately—so what does $1,900 get you?

Build Quality

The level of finishing and overall quality is striking from the moment you pick the bass up. The gloss body and neck show off the timber figuring; the roasted maple neck is blessed with a flame figure that stands out because of its practically three-dimensional quality—this also extends to the headstock facing. The three-tone sunburst finish gives the alder body an all-round vintage appearance, while the black scratchplate, chrome bridge, pickup covers, and control plate maintain the understated look of this bass.