The first time I saw a guitar with custom inlays, I was mesmerized. The intricate patterns dancing along the fretboard told a story that words couldn’t capture. That moment ignited a passion that would shape my career for the next three decades. As a luthier with an engineering background, I’ve come to appreciate the delicate … Read more
I strummed my beloved Stratocaster, expecting the searing wail of rock ‘n’ roll. Instead, a mellow, acoustic-like twang filled the room. My electric guitar sounded acoustic, and I was baffled. As the editor of ‘Acoustic Guitar’ magazine and a seasoned electric guitarist, I’ve encountered this perplexing issue numerous times. It’s a common problem that can … Read more
The first time I heard a bajo sexto, I felt like I’d discovered a hidden treasure. Its rich, resonant tones filled the air, weaving a tapestry of sound that was both familiar and exotic. As a guitar journalist with a master’s in Contemporary Improvisation, I’ve encountered countless string instruments, but the bajo sexto stood out … Read more
As I held the small, polished stone between my fingers, I never imagined it would revolutionize my guitar playing. The moment I struck the strings with this unconventional pick, a world of sonic possibilities opened up before me. The rich, warm tones that emanated from my instrument were unlike anything I’d ever heard before. This … Read more
The first time I laid eyes on a rainbow eucalyptus guitar, I was stunned. The vibrant, multicolored streaks dancing across the instrument’s body were unlike anything I’d seen in my years as a luthier. It was as if someone had captured a rainbow and woven it into wood. That moment sparked a journey of discovery … Read more
I never thought my expertise in crafting guitar cases would lead me down this path. As a luthier with decades of experience, I’ve always prided myself on creating the perfect protective shells for musical instruments. But life has a way of surprising you. It all started when a close friend, a touring musician with a … Read more
The year was 1990, and the metal world was about to be shaken to its core. As I held the freshly pressed vinyl of Megadeth’s ‘Rust in Peace’ in my hands, little did I know that this album would redefine thrash metal and become a guitar virtuoso’s holy grail. Fast forward three decades, and I’m … Read more
Introduction to Gator Guitar Cases As I stood in the wreckage of what was once my prized Gibson Les Paul, I realized the true cost of inadequate protection. That fateful day, when my flimsy case gave way during a turbulent flight, changed everything. It wasn’t just about the monetary loss; it was the heartbreak of … Read more
The first time I heard a bass guitar slide, I was mesmerized. It was like the instrument was singing, weeping, and laughing all at once. That moment changed my perception of bass guitar forever, opening up a world of expressive possibilities I never knew existed. As I delved deeper into this technique, I discovered that … Read more
Did you know that the wood used in a Telecaster guitar body can dramatically alter its sound? As a luthier with decades of experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand how a simple change in body material can transform a Telecaster from a twangy country machine to a warm blues beast. This surprising versatility is just one of … Read more