Coldsweat? it could definately do nevermore and though its not the most brutal pickup in the range, thats one of the best things about it. It could get very dirty, it remains tight, but its always crystal clear as hell, even in low tunings. With a high gain amp, it could do death metal for sure I think, but its not very sizzly. As for the woods? It works fine in my guitar which is alder with a maple top and maple neck and pau ferro board, so i think it would do alright in basswood. Just my 2 cents. But if you like even more power, I'd say miracle man for sure.