Sticking with family tradition Brian
began playing bass in 1982. Taught by his father Paul (formerly of Changes and Nite Fire). With money saved from a paper route (yes really a paper route) Brian bought a 1983 Fender Precision.

After a few months of practicing Brian joined up with Paul Swenson and Ron Hull to form Purgatory. Members Claude Berry and Todd Lewis would later join and Purgatory went on to preform at the 1984 La Follette High School Battle of the Bands.

Shortly after this Brian was introduced to future Last Crack members Paul Schluter, Don Bakken and Chris Skolaski (Havey). Joined also by vocalist Todd Braun they formed Hardline with highlights including winning the 1985 La Follette Battle of the Bands and opening for Milwaukee area rockers Bad Boy.

Around 1987 Brian jammed briefly with Brian Witt and also played occasional fill in gigs with Nite Fire. There were also many “Blues Summit” jams at his father Paul’s house with various musicians including brother Matt Mangan (formerly of None Left Standing and Paris, Texas).

Looking for a bassist for his 40th birthday party, Witt contacted Mangan along with original Whiplash members Tom Innis , Harley Schmirler and Brent Burghy. Since then Whiplash has become a staple on the Madison music scene including performances at the Taste of Madison, Brat Fest and Cottage Grove Festival.

Brian’s current setup includes:

Guitars and Amp:

  • 1983 USA Fender Precision Bass
  • Fender Geddy Lee Jazz Bass
  • SWR SM-500 Amplifier
  • SWR Goliath 4×10 Cabinet

      • Miscellaneous:

      • Shure SM-58 (vocals)
      • Shure PGX-4 Wireless (bass)
      • Rotosound Swing ‘66 strings
      • Monster and Planet Waves cables