Talk ’90s to me RIP Mani – Why the Stone Roses bass genius was universally loved
Nov 21, 2025
John Robb, a journalist and founder of Louder Than War, pays tribute to the beloved Stone Roses bassist Gary 'Mani' Mounfield. Robb reflects on how Mani's infectious personality and warmth united the band and the music scene in Manchester. He explores Mani’s punk roots, his intuitive bass playing that fused indie and dance, and his role as a mediator within a volatile group. With personal anecdotes and insight into Mani's legacy, Robb captures why Mani remains cherished in British music history.
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Beloved In Real Time
- Gary "Mani" Mounfield was uniquely loved in real time, not just after his death; people had great stories about him while he was alive.
- John Robb emphasizes Mani's modesty and hopes Mani knew how admired he was.
The Fan Who Joined The Band
- Mani acted like a fan who'd joined the band, radiating excitement on stage rather than frontman cool.
- John Robb recounts Mani cheering and inviting crowd interaction at Primal Scream gigs.
Versatile Bass That Bridged Styles
- Mani combined funk, punk and post‑punk sensibilities into a versatile bass style.
- That blend let him deliver both groove and heavy parts across Stone Roses and Primal Scream.
