Acoustic Spotlight Zone

Thirty Thousand and Counting

2012-02-10T09:47:00.001-06:00

Not much activity lately, but the hits keep coming. Passed 30,000 pageviews :) More frequent posting will come shortly.

Spotlight on New Epiphone ES-339

2011-12-27T10:37:00.002-06:00

Check out THIS LINK to get all the info on Epiphone's newest release, the ES-339 Pro and Ultra-339. This semi-hollow guitar is a beauty. It's body is smaller than similar Epiphone semi-hollows. It's more or less a high quality value guitar. Check out these great specs:

- Rosewood fretboard

- Mother of pearl dot inlays

- Mahogany neck

- Reduced size laminated maple body with solid center block

- Nickel hardware

- LockTone bridge and tailpiece

I can't wait to get my hands on one of these and try it out for myself!

Epiphone Modified into a Semi-Hollow

2011-12-18T14:26:00.002-06:00

Check out the link below to read more about an awesome modified Epiphone electric. The craftsman actually routed out the interior of the body to transform it into a semi-hollow!!! Very cool.

Heavily modified el cheapo Epiphone Special Plus

Ana Vidovic Performing Valses Venezolanos 2 y 3

2011-12-15T13:31:00.001-06:00

Very, very nice classical guitar playing. Enjoy.

25,000 and Counting

2011-11-02T13:10:00.001-05:00

This small, unassuming little hobby-blog has reached 25,000 hits/views. Not too shabby. Here's to 25,000 more (preferably sooner!).

Spotlight on National Reso-Phonic Ukulele

2011-10-27T09:51:00.002-05:00

I saw this and had to share it. Check out this beautiful, reso-style mandolin by National Reso-Phonic (sorry I couldn't find a larger picture). You can get a better look at THIS LINK.

These are some very nice specs:

- Maple top, back, sides, and neck

- Mother of pearl fretboard markers

- Rosewood fretboard

- Grover tuners

- Tortoise/ivoroid headstock overlay

- Bone nut

I hope to find this thing in a local store and give it a play. Very nice, very beautiful, and very creative concept.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Win a Harmonica Autographed by John Popper of Blues Traveler

2011-10-23T22:02:00.002-05:00

Blues Traveler is giving away a harmonica signed by band member John Popper. Check it out at THIS LINK. As Stan Lee would say, 'nuff said.

Good luck! Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone, even if this particular post isn't exactly, um, acoustic-guitar-ish.

Win a Guitar Signed by Alex Skolnick

2011-10-16T21:50:00.003-05:00

You can sign up at THIS LINK. Good luck!

Off Topic: Book Donations for PhD Work

2011-10-12T09:41:00.002-05:00

This is the first time I've gone off topic and not discussed something related to acoustic guitar (or mandolin, or banjo, etc.). You may be aware that I'm a Ph.D. student (biblical studies) and part time guitar teacher. I've now reached the dissertation phase of my education. Allow me to invite you to check out a booklist I've made at Amazon at THIS LINK. It has books that I desperately need for my research. Sure, I can check some of these out through interlibrary loans, but I can usually only keep those for 1-2 weeks and I can't highlight or make notes in them. So, if you're able, I would greatly appreciate it if you take a look at the book list and see if there's something you could swing.

Thanks in advance! Lord bless,

- Mike

Win a Guitar Signed by Scotty McCreery

2011-10-06T12:31:00.001-05:00

Check out THIS LINK to sign up for a chance to win a guitar signed by American Idol winner Scotty McCreery. Free stuff, yay.

Danielle Ate the Sandwich covers "If I Die Young" by The Band Perry

2011-10-05T12:39:00.002-05:00

Here's a video actually recommended to me by YouTube. Cool. I'll take it! It's actually a nice job using multiple tracks. The vocals are very cool, a nice rendition that recalls the original but has it's only style, too. Ukulele rocks. Enjoy.

Ana Vidovic Performing "Asturias" (Classical Guitar)

2011-10-05T11:03:00.003-05:00

Check out this intriguing performance by Ana Vidovic. She's another fine guitarist I discovered thanks to YouTube :) Stick with this video to the end and you'll see some amazing stuff. Enjoy--thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Carl Verheyen playing "Henry's Farm" (Acoustic Guitar)

2011-09-29T10:08:00.002-05:00

Thought I'd share this video of virtuoso Carl Verheyen playing some instrumental acoustic guitar. There's a LOT going on in this performance! Very skillful combination of using a pick AND finger-picking. He's an amazing performer. Great sounding dreadnought, too. Enjoy.

Win a Guitar Signed by Dolly Parton

2011-09-23T18:49:00.001-05:00

What kind of guitar? Acoustic, that's all I know. And it's supposedly a $450 guitar. It's a giveaway at the Grand Ole Opry site. Check out THIS LINK for a chance to win.

Good luck!

Review of Epiphone Emperor Swingster Hollowbody Guitar

2011-09-23T08:59:00.004-05:00

Check out THIS LINK to read a review of Epiphone's Emperor Swingster. Um, yeah, I definitely would like to rock one of these guitars!

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Eric Clapton: "Ramblin' on My Mind"

2011-09-14T09:10:00.003-05:00

Here's ol' Slowhand himself performing "Ramblin' on My Mind." I love Clapton's acoustic blues style. Real traditional, real energetic, and excellent in quality. He makes that resonator sound terrific! Enjoy.

Keb' Mo': "We Don't Need It" (Acoustic Live)

2011-09-12T09:00:00.001-05:00

This tune is pure, unadulterated Keb' Mo'. Enjoy.

Win an Acoustic Guitar with Johnny Cooper Graphic

2011-09-08T21:14:00.002-05:00

Check out THIS LINK for a chance to win the guitar pictured below. Not sure what the details are, but hey, it's a freebie if you win! Good luck. Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on Epiphone EL-00 Parlor Guitar

2011-09-07T14:59:00.002-05:00

This has to be one of the best deals you can find today. This Epiphone EL-00, a parlor guitar ideal for blues, bluegrass, finger-style, acoustic lead guitar, etc., is well built. It has a solid spruce top, a mahogany body, excellent specs from one end to the other, and you can get one new for around $300!!!!!!!! That's a steal, folks. A comparable Gibson goes for about 3 grand. Epiphone is one of my favorite companies b/c of the value you get for your money, and this axe illustrates that point nicely. Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

12-string Violin style Hollow Body Guitar

2011-09-04T14:11:00.000-05:00

Check out this cool guitar at the Guitarz site. Just awesome!

Conrad "violin" 12-string electric hollowbody guitar

Keb' Mo' - Something Within (live acoustic)

2011-08-23T08:57:00.002-05:00

Gotta love Keb' Mo'.

Cool Lesson for Bach Bourree in E-minor

2011-08-22T09:44:00.002-05:00

I opened up YouTube, and this vid was actually a suggestion. Un-friggin'-believable. Check it out--classical guitar doesn't have to be so scary!

Enjoy.

Win a Prize Pack of Banjo Accesories!

2011-08-16T08:56:00.003-05:00

Check out THIS LINK to enter your name in the mix to win this awesome banjo prize pack. The winner will get a banjo stand, an Iucci banjo mute, 4 sets of Gold Tone strings, an ABS microphone system, and a CCT tuner.

Good luck! Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on 2 New Fender Folk Guitars

2011-08-09T18:23:00.004-05:00

Fender has 2 new folk acoustic models, the CF-140S and the CF-140SCE. First of all, let's talk about the 140S. This guitar has wider spaced strings and a parlor shaped body, something desirable for flatpickers and fingerpickers alike. It has:

- a satin finished, mahogany neck

- dual action truss rod

- solid spruce top

- laminated mahogany back and sides

- rosewood fretboard

- mother of pearl, dot inlays

- chrome hardware

- rosewood bridge

These are nice specs for a guitar that lists for $299.99. I think anyone interested in a solid top guitar for pickin' should test one of these out.

Fender CF-140S

Next, the Fender CF-140SCE. This model is basically just a cutaway version of the above guitar, but it comes with Fishman electronics, including a tuner and preamp. At $429.99, I'd definitely take a look at it if I was in the market for a good deal on a solid top acoustic with electronics. These appear to be great values for the price, and I would definitely love to try them.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on Epiphone Les Paul Ukulele

2011-07-28T18:55:00.004-05:00

Check out these very cool Epiphone Les Paul style Ukuleles at THIS LINK. I haven't seen any at a local guitar shop, but I'd sure like to get my hands on one. And the specs are actually pretty good:

- Solid Mahogany body

- AAA Flame maple top

- Rosewood fingerboard

- High end Piezo pickup under the saddle

- High end geared tuners

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

The Band Perry: "If I Die Young" (Acoustic Live)

2011-07-28T11:59:00.003-05:00

An acoustic guitar, a mandolin, a bass, and some great singing (from all 3!). Oh yeah--and a great tune. This is very nice, scaled down performance. I always wonder, though, why the bassists in these "unplugged" performances usually don't go with an acoustic bass, even if it's just a semi-hollow electric. Oh well, still very nice. Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Kate Rusby: "Who Will Sing Me Lullabies?" (Acoustic Live)

2011-07-27T10:22:00.002-05:00

Here's a terrific acoustic performance by Kate Rusby, who does traditional English folk music. I cold listen to this all day :) And is that accompaniment instrument an eight-string banjo? Very, very cool. Enjoy.

Spotlight on New Semi-Hollow Fender Telecaster 69 Reissue

2011-07-26T15:13:00.005-05:00

Check out the new Fender Vintage '69 Thinline Telecaster. The Tele is probably my favorite Fender model (although I have seen some sweet sounding Fender dobros), and I especially love Semi-Hollow Teles. This model has an F-hole and open chamber inside the body, thus making it semi-acoustic and fair game for this site : ) See more details below the image.

Check out these specs:

- Semi-hollow mahogany body

- Gloss lacquer finish

- C-shape maple neck w/ gloss finish

- Maple fingerboard

- High end single coil pickups

- Knurled chrome knobs

- Chrome hardware

- Available in Olympic white or two-tone sunburst

God bless America! What a great guitar. The combination of maple body--semi-hollow--maple neck should make for a very versatile axe, something that can excel at anything form Nashville to chicken-picken' to rock to jazz to a clear blues sound. Can't wait to plug one in and try it for myself!

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Höfner hollow-body jazz guitar

2011-07-25T23:41:00.000-05:00

Check out this beautiful Hofner guitar over at the Guitarz site. You're welcome : )

Höfner hollow-body jazz guitar with 512 blade pickups

Spotlight on PRS Angelus Acoustic Guitar

2011-07-22T08:04:00.004-05:00

When I think of Paul Reed Smith Guitars (hereafter PRS), I immediately think of those sleek, double cutaway electrics with flame maple tops! Or Carlos Santana tearing up a guitar solo one, that's for sure. Did you know, however, that PRS makes some acoustic guitars?

Check out this model, the PRS Angelus Cutaway Private Stock. It's a beauty! And the specs are top flight:

- European Spruce top

- Curly Maple back and sides

- Mahogany neck

- Paua heart purfling with black

- Ebony fretboard

- Paua heart and koa bird inlays

- Bone nut and saddle

- Robson tuning pegs with ebony buttons

- Optional PRS electronics

- High gloss nitro finish

I'd love to find one of these beauties at a guitar store and give it a test play, but alas--I've NEVER seen a PRS acoustic at ANY guitar store. I suppose stores don't keep $11,000 guitars out where the public can play them.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Win a Signed Yamaha F325 Acoustic Guitar

2011-07-19T21:48:00.002-05:00

Check out THIS LINK to put your name in the hat for a chance to win this beautiful Yamaha guitar signed by Alex Skolnick. After checking out its specs, I can say with some confidence that it looks to be a nice guitar, not a high-end solid-top, but a well built entry level guitar. It has:

- a laminated spruce top

- rosewood fingerboard & bridge

- gloss finish

- meranti back & sides

Good luck! Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Delightful Semi-Hollow Guitar

2011-07-16T12:21:00.000-05:00

Follow the link to see a cool custom. It's an electric guitar with some chambers carved in it, thus a semi-hollow axe--and thus I can post it here at Acoustic Spotlight Zone :)

Check it out, you won't be disappointed. Thanks for stopping by the site!

John McGee's Dragon - a one-off guitar built by one of our readers

New Epiphone Catalog

2011-07-14T10:01:00.003-05:00

Check out THIS LINK to see the new Epiphone catalog. And, if anything stands out to you, it would be cool if you came back here and told us what it is!

I'm definitely an Epiphone fan. I don't think they make the "bestest ever" instruments or anything like that, but I do think Epiphone is one of the best (if not THE best) bang-for-your-buck guitar companies today. I mean, you can get a solid top, well-designed, great sounding acoustic guitar for a few hundred bucks, while a comparable Gibson might have a few more bells & whistles and sells for four thousand dollars! So, yeah, I like Epiphone b/c it's sort "for the rest of us." Is there a guitar company that you feel is a great value?

Anyways, have fun looking through their new catalog. Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Acoustic Cover of "Use Somebody" by Kings of Leon

2011-07-14T09:07:00.003-05:00

Um . . . wow. I love YouTube. You can open its page and right there the site itself is recommending some video for you (that you have never found on your own) that is just un-friggin'-believable. Unless you don't know anything about anything, this cover of "Use Somebody" will blow you away (in a good, very very good way). See folks--all it takes is an acoustic guitar, a great song, and great singing to make magic happen. Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Cover of "Over the Hills and Far Away" (Led Zeppelin)

2011-07-13T18:13:00.003-05:00

Sometimes I just get lucky on YouTube. By that I mean that sometimes I go there and one of the vids labeled "recommended for you" is actually something very cool, like this cover of Over the Hills and Far Away by a user whose handle is JohnnyAce07. He starts out playing it on some sort of jumbo Guild, and he's dubbed himself playing a twelve string, too (which you can see in the bottom right corner). Eventually he provides another lay of dubbing with a terrific sounding Les Paul. Finally, there are two Les Paul layers. Great stuff. I know, I know, it's not entirely "acoustic," but it has plenty of acoustic guitar, so c'mon. And I never said I don't like electric guitar--as a matter of fact, I could listen to Zeppelin any day of the week. I just like acoustic stuff more :)

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Great Deal on an Ibanez Acoustic Guitar

2011-07-12T13:42:00.002-05:00

Check out THIS LINK to see a beautiful Ibanez acoustic guitar on ebay. It goes for $99 and free shipping. If you've been needing a guitar but can't afford anything decent, here's your chance. I'd get it myself if I didn't have a tuition bill approaching :P

Sorry I can't provide a pic--I can't seem to save pics from ebay in a format that I can then turn around and post on here (help?).

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

A Review of the Gibson Jackson Browne Acoustic Guitar

2011-07-12T12:56:00.003-05:00

Check out THIS LINK to see the Musician's Friend review of the new Gibson Jackson Browne model. This is definitely a high class guitar with a high price tag ($4,499.00 on Amazon). Even though I'm not a huge Gibson fan--I despise overpriced, rich folk guitars--I'll admit that their acoustics are certainly fantastic instruments. I just think you can spend far less money and get a better sounding Taylor or Seagull (discuss?).

Still, this model looks to be a sweet sounding, booming guitar; and, the vintage burst looks fantastic. Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Win a Guitar Signed by Eric Church

2011-07-12T00:03:00.003-05:00

Check out THIS LINK for a chance to win a guitar signed by Eric Church. It doesn't say what kind of guitar it is, but I did some googling (word?) and every pic I found of him with a guitar shows him playing an acoustic one. I guess that doesn't mean much, but hey, it's a chance to win a free guitar. You're welcome! Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Great Deal on Art & Lutherie "Ami" Parlor Guitar

2011-07-09T13:12:00.002-05:00

Check out this Art & Lutherie Parlor Guitar that's on ebay right now. You can find it at THIS LINK. This one has a solid cedar top, wild cherry sides, more than acceptable hardware, and a gorgeous color. A while back I wrote a post about this "Ami" parlor guitar model, which you can read at THIS LINK.

If you're looking for a great price on an excellent guitar, then good luck bidding! I'd bid on it myself if I had any money to spend whatsover!!!

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Steven Curtis Chapman: "Do Everything" (Live Acoustic)

2011-07-07T09:15:00.004-05:00

Here is some fantastic guitar playing by one of my favorite artists, Steven Curtis Chapman. He gets a ton of sound by letting his chords have a lot of open notes, even up high on the fretboard. Plus, he incorporates a large variety of chords, really taking advantage of the full spectrum of the musical key. Finally, his rhythm playing is top flight. If you can really master rhythm guitar playing, you don't need guitar solos and lead riffs to achieve interesting guitar playing. Excellent, excellent stuff. And good grief, that Steven Curtis Chapman signature model Taylor Guitar sounds brilliant! Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Win a Banjo Video Package

2011-07-06T09:00:00.006-05:00

Check out THIS LINK to see a fantastic giveaway at the Banjo Hangout website.

From the Site:

Winners will receive these five lesson packs:

Banjo Improvisation Package
Basic Scruggs Lick Workout Package
Rhythm & Backup 101 Package
Backup Licks & Rolls
Classic Backup Package.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Keb' Mo' "Hand it Over"

2011-07-04T09:00:00.001-05:00

Here's a nice performance from one of my favorite guitarists, Keb' Mo'. Enjoy.

20,000 and Counting!

2011-07-02T10:00:00.002-05:00

This post is just a brief note: The Acoustic Spotlight Zone has reached the milestone of 20,000 hits. Pretty cool for a hobby blog in which I simply share my passion for all things acoustic guitar. Thanks to everyone who checks out the site.

I'm not exactly sure what makes certain posts rise in hit counts, but here are the top 3 most visited posts on this site:

1. Spotlight on Lag T400 DEC Acoustic Guitar

2. Spotlight on Art & Lutherie "Ami" Parlor Guitar

3. Spotlight on Seagull Cedar Grand (parlor guitar)

Spotlight on Epiphone Texan Acoustic Guitar

2011-06-28T21:33:00.004-05:00

Check out the link HERE to see a great piece about the history of the Epiphone Texan acoustic guitar. It turns out that the Beatles, Nirvana, and Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young (other bands, too, of course) utilized this model or one of its predecessors at one time or another. I enjoyed the brief article, perhaps you will too! Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Win a Gretsch Guitar from Peter Furler!

2011-06-25T10:51:00.003-05:00

Check out THIS LINK to win a Gretsch guitar from Peter Furler. Unfortunately, no details about the guitar are given except that it the one on the cover of his new album, which is pictured below. Good luck! Wouldn't it be awesome to win a Gretsch? One day I'm going to win one of these unbelievable promo giveaways. One day soon.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Double Cutaway Guild at the Guitarz Site

2011-06-23T21:56:00.001-05:00

Guild Studio 24 double cutaway 24-fret acoustic guitar

Check out this Guild guitar that was posted over at the Guitarz site. This is certainly not what comes to mind when I think "Guild." Very cool post.

Premier Guitar Reviews Ibanez AFS80T Artcore Guitar (Hollowbody)

2011-06-22T10:10:00.003-05:00

Check out THIS LINK to see Premier Guitar's review of the Ibanez AFS80T Artcore electric guitar. Everything about this axe seems absolutely terrific to me. It's a full hollow body electric guitar. It has a high quality, bigsby style tremolo system. It has maple top, back, and sides plus 2 soapbar, ceramic pickups, which should create a large variety of great tones. There's a 3-piece neck made from mahogany and maple, and the fretboard is rosewood. I'm all for traditional (just see the previous post), but the metallic green color with the sleek white stripes is way cool. I might have to head down to my local guitar stores and try to play one for myself!

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on New Godin 5th Avenue "Uptown"

2011-06-21T07:37:00.003-05:00

Godin has added a new model to its 5th Avenue line, the "Uptown." This axe is a beauty! I've been impressed with this line because it offers a terrific sounding archtop guitars for far less than comparable guitars made by companies like Gibson. This new incarnation of the 5th Avenue adds a Bigsby tremolo system as well as some other features. Now you know what to get me for Christmas (I'll take the red one, please).

Check out these specs:

Canadian Wild Cherry archtop or flame maple archtop with canadian wild cherry core (on flame model).
Canadian Wild cherry back & sides.
Silver Leaf maple neck.
Contoured high-gloss black headstock.
Custom Polished Finish: Gloss Top (GT) with semi-gloss back & sides.
Rosewood Fingerboard.
Roller saddle Adjustable bridge with Tusq base by Graphtech.
Cream Binding.
2x Custom Godin humbucker pickups.
3-way toggle switch, 1x Volume, 1x Tone
16" (406 mm) fingerboard radius
24.84" (630 mm) Scale
1.72" (4,37 mm) nut width
Colors: Solid Black GT and Trans Red Flame GT

Bravo, Godin, bravo. Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on Martin Edwards, Luthier (Terrific Website)

2011-06-20T16:35:00.004-05:00

I came across a terrific website, Martin Edwards Luthier. This blog features Martin's custom built instruments. What's more, Martin does a fabulous job of displaying the various stages of his work. I absolutely love this site!

There was a time when I got to do some wood-working myself. Not only have I worked for various framing and building crews, but I also worked in a cabinet shop building some higher quality stuff. I used to fantasize that one day I'll finish my education, get a decent job, and learn luthiery as a hobby/passion. Yes, folks, that's how much I love all things acoustic guitar! Perhaps the day will come.

I highly recommend clicking on the link above in the first line and checking out Martin Edwards Luthier. An enthusiast of acoustic guitars will get a lot out of it. Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Below: Mandolin Headstock in Early Stages

Win a Gibson J-160E John Lennon 70th Anniversary Guitar

2011-06-17T11:04:00.002-05:00

Check out THIS LINK for a chance to win this beautiful Gibson guitar. Looks to be a guitar of the highest quality. I love the sunburst, it's just stunning. Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on Luna Guitars Athena 501

2011-06-16T13:38:00.003-05:00

Check out this new semi-hollow beauty from Luna Guitars. It's the Athena 501. What a great-looking axe! It's refreshing to see the market expanding a bit for semi-hollows.

Gotta love the specs:

- flame maple top

- rosewood fretboard

- maple body

- clear gloss finish

- gold satin hardware

- duel humbuckers

- bound f-holes

- maple neck

Here's a well done promo video:

Can't wait to try one! Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Laura Story: "One Life to Lose" (Acoustic)

2011-06-15T09:29:00.002-05:00

So I opened up YouTube and this vid was actually "recommended" for me. Cool. It's a good example of how an acoustic guitar, played with a little variety and passion, is perfect for carrying an introspective, passionately performed tune. The key is variety - the acoustic playing, though simple, builds. Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

William Fitzsimmons: "Blood and Bones"

2011-06-01T11:49:00.003-05:00

I found this on YouTube and REALLY like it. It demonstrates how an acoustic guitar, simply and delicately played, is all that's needed to carry an interesting tune. Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Listen to an Iron and Wine Concert for free!

2011-05-29T19:28:00.005-05:00

Check it out at THIS LINK. It's at the NPR site. It's a 55-minute recording.

Cover of Blind Lemon Jefferson's "Shuckin' Sugar"

2011-05-29T19:10:00.004-05:00

I went to YouTube in hopes of finding some vids with Blind Lemon Jefferson. Most of those seem to have audio but no visual recordings of him playing. I did find, however, a very nice cover of "Shuckin' Sugar" by a YouTuber with the user name "frankie12string." I hope you enjoy it as much as I do :)

Check out the Poseidon's Toad Banjo

2011-05-27T23:26:00.004-05:00

I came across this radically designed banjo and just had to share it. It's called the Poseidon's Toad Banjo (!?!). Simply click HERE to see its page at the Blindworm Guitars site. Apparently Blindworms Guitars is in Colorado. This is one cool banjo! Thanks for stopping by.

Link to Zenta Semi-Hollow Bass

2011-05-27T23:19:00.000-05:00

The Guitarz site has a recent post with a really neat old Zenta (?) semi-hollow bass guitar. Definitely worth your time if you like viewing old acoustic (or in this case semi-acoustic) guitars. Thanks for stopping by.

Zenta vintage semi-hollowbody bass

1961 Epiphone Casino Reissue (Beautiful!)

2011-05-26T12:28:00.006-05:00

Check out this "new" 1961 Epiphone Casino Reissue. This hollow-body guitar was originally a guitar for the ages. Judging from the looks in this picture and the specs discussed in the video below, the reissue more than lives up to the legend of its forebear.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Check out more info HERE.

Signed Epiphone Banjo Giveaway - Check it!

2011-05-24T13:32:00.003-05:00

Check out this beautiful Epiphone banjo that Redmusic [dot] com is giving away HERE. It's signed by the band, Mumford & Sons. Warning - only enter once! Now I'll have to check out their music since I'm unfamiliar with it. Good luck.

Getting Back on the Horse

2011-04-20T14:58:00.002-05:00

It's time to start things up again here at the Acoustic Spotlight Zone! I've been on "leave" for quite some time because our family has a new baby boy and because my wife had a procedure done on her neck (among other things). I had to set a lot of things aside and focus on what comes first. It's time, though, to start showing some attention to this site again. Blogging my love of acoustic guitars and acoustic music has been a fun hobby and a great stress reliever. I don't think I'll be blogging daily again; it will probably be more like a couple times a week. Spread the word that this site is getting back on the grid!

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Tim O'Brien and Darrell Scott: "Brother Wind"

2011-02-22T20:10:00.002-06:00

I love the "unplugged" (for lack of a better word) vibe of this song by Tim O'Brien and Darrell Scott. The mandolin integrates so well with the other instruments. Great, great stuff. Can you believe YouTube actually recommended this gem to me when I went there? Sometimes you get lucky I guess :)

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Keb' Mo' : "Every Morning"

2011-02-19T09:54:00.002-06:00

It's been more than a week since I last posted. I'm happy to say that we have a healthy, eight-day-old baby boy. Let me get back in the swing of things by simply posting a great tune. Here's one of my favorite guitarists, Keb' Mo', performing a tune called "Every Morning." I love the subtlety of his playing in this performance. Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Temporary Break while Baby Comes!

2011-02-10T21:26:00.002-06:00

I haven't posted as much as I would've liked too lately because we have a baby coming. The next several days will be a total break from posting for me as we welcome our 2nd child into the world. I can't wait to get back to it after our next little (future) guitar player gets settled in. So, I'm signing off until next week. In the meantime, tell someone what a cool site this is!

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

1953 Gretsch Clipper

2011-02-05T08:40:00.000-06:00

Check out this acoustic beauty over at the Guitarz site! You're welcome :)

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone

1953 Gretsch Clipper

Spotlight on 1910 Epiphone Harp Guitar

2011-02-04T15:43:00.003-06:00

Epiphone was not always under the umbrella of Gibson. It actually goes back to 1873 and wasn't under Gibson until 1957. Here's an example of the type of fine, pioneering craftsmanship that Epiphone was known for in the early 20th century. It's a 1910 Harp Guitar. I really appreciate the Epiphone line of guitars today. They make some very affordable, entry-level guitars that actually play in tune and don't fall apart; plus they also make some very fine, well-crafted, solid top guitar models that use high end tonewoods, and they're much more affordable than comparable Gibsons.

This model featured a solid spruce top, rosewood sides, and a mahogany back. Nice. If you'd like to see a harp guitar in action, check out THIS LINK to a post on this site to see modern master Andy McKee using the top guitar to add deep bass notes to his fingerstyle playing.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Andy McKee: "Ebon Coast"

2011-02-03T09:41:00.003-06:00

Check out this brilliant instrumental by acoustic guitar master Andy McKee. It has a lot of different vibes - sort of classical, jazz, fusion, and even a bit folky. Very cool stuff. I suppose in the end its style is really Andy McKee! It also has a combination of finger-picking, muting, and even the occasional two-hand tapping. Love it. Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Moon Mullins: "I Am a Pilgrim"

2011-02-02T10:48:00.002-06:00

Check out this sweet fingerstyle playing by north Arkansas legend Moon Mullins. This player is a fine example of how the best guitarists out there aren't even on the map. His name is easily recognized, however, in places like the Ozark Folks Center. Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on Parkwood PW-LE061 Acoustic Guitar

2011-02-01T07:54:00.003-06:00

Here's a great-looking acoustic guitar with some native Australian flair. It's a limited edition guitar by Parkwood Guitars that's made of Australian blackwood. I absolutely love the look of the wood! I have never heard of it, though, & would be curious to hear this axe in person. The dreaded wikipedia says it's a member of the Acacia family. I am also a big fan of the Grand Auditorium style/shape of the guitar.

Check out these specs:

- Solid Australian Blackwood top, back, & sides

- Bound Mahogany 1 piece neck

- 2 way Biflex truss rod

- Ebony fingerboard

- Bone nut & saddle

- Abalone soundhole rosette

- Abalone/Flamed Maple binding

- Thin gloss finish

- Scalloped bracing

- Dovetail neck joint.

Like I said, I'd love to give this axe the ear test!

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone. You can click the label "Guitar Models" at the bottom of this post to see more great guitars featured on this site.

Framus Atlantik 5/113 52 T

2011-01-30T12:42:00.000-06:00

Check out this vintage semi-hollow guitar over at the Guitarz blog. Ah, the sweetness!!!

Framus Atlantik 5/113 52 T

Spotlight on Charis SN 250 "Small Jumbo" Guitar

2011-01-27T08:33:00.004-06:00

Check out the craftsmanship of this beautiful guitar, the Charis SN 250 Small Jumbo. It's made from high quality tonewoods & has some interesting features in its design, such as the porthole at the top shoulder & the "arm bevel" above the bridge. I would personally have to play and hear this to be a believer, but apparently there's something to this model since it's nominated for awards at various acoustic guitar sites. Gotta love the specs:

- Solid German Spruce top/soundboard

- Solid Figured Myrtle back & sides

- Sapele Mahogany neck

- Wenge binding material

- Bone saddle & nut

- Ebony fingerboard w/ T'Zalam fret markers

- Optional Pickup system

- Ebony headplate

- Gold Gotoh Delta Series tuners

Very interesting axe. I would love get my hands on one and test it out personally, but I don't expect to see one at any of my local guitar shops!

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone. You can click the label "Guitar Models" at the bottom of this post to see more guitars featured on this site.

Spotlight on the Reverend "Pete Anderson Signature" Hollowbody Guitar

2011-01-25T08:44:00.006-06:00

I recently came across Reverend guitars and discovered a variety of promising-looking axes. Check out this hollowbody model, the Peter Anderson Signature guitar. The list price for this axe is $1439, which might seem high to some, but is actually a terrific deal when you compare this model to similar Gibsons and such.

Check out these specs:

- Laminated real Spruce top

- Laminated real Maple body

- Arched top and back

- Bound f-holes

- 2 Reverend P90 pickups, both calibrated for their position

- 3-piece Korina neck

- Rosewood fingerboard w/ pearloid inlays

- Reverend Pin-Lock tuners

- Dual action truss rod

My first impression? Wow! What a great looking axe.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

12,000 and Counting

2011-01-22T09:52:00.002-06:00

The site has now surpassed 12,000 visits. Small potatoes for some, but it's certainly more than I was expecting when I started blogging about my hobby :)

Thanks to everyone stops by. My next goal is to get more comments on this site than comments about the site on Facebook lol.

The Eagles: "Hotel California" (unplugged/acoustic)

2011-01-21T10:38:00.003-06:00

I remember being overwhelmed by the awesomeness when this acoustic rendition of a rock classic came out in the early 90s. I still like the perplexed yet gleeful feeling that washes over me when I see Joe Walsh playing a cutaway, nylon-stringed guitar. This moment was a watershed in the history of the acoustic guitar (dramatic much?). Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on Warwick Star Bass Single Cut (semi-acoustic)

2011-01-20T10:16:00.003-06:00

Check out this new axe by Warwick, a semi-acoustic, flame maple bass guitar. I'm so glad to see makers of electric bass guitars still showing some love for the semi-hollo/semi-acoustic models. There's a nice, brief writeup HERE. You should also check out more of the Warwick line of basses HERE. Specific specs for this model are HERE.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone. You can click the label "Guitar Models" at the bottom of this post to see more guitars highlighted on this site.

Win a Guitar Signed by Taylor Swift (again)

2011-01-20T08:28:00.004-06:00

Yeah, this post is DEFINITELY not for everyone. Check out THIS LINK for a chance to win a guitar signed by Taylor Swift. Don't you just know, though, that if you gave this axe to a young girl, she'd be a guitar player for life! That's why I threw my name in the hat lol.

Good luck.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone. You can check out the label "Contests/Giveaways" at the bottom of this post to find links to more guitar giveaways.

Dave Rawlings & Gillian Welch: "Throw Me a Rope" (or The Way It Would Be)

2011-01-18T12:29:00.002-06:00

I love everything about this performance. I love that Gillian's huge dreadnought guitar has the perfect sound for the rhythm guitar she plays. I love that Dave's old archtop acoustic has a sweet, pointed sound that's perfect for his lead runs. I love that this song has a consistent atmosphere throughout. More than anything, though, I love how their voices and guitar playing blend together so brilliantly in this song. This tune, which goes by two names (as in the title of this post), is a work of art. Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Win a Daisy Rock Guitar

2011-01-17T09:36:00.002-06:00

Unless you're a young girl who plays or wants to learn guitar, or perhaps you know a young girl who plays or wants to learn guitar, this contest may not be for you :)

Check out THIS LINK for a chance to win an autographed Daisy Rock guitar. Daisy Rock markets primarily to younger girls with the goal of encouraging more females to take up guitar. Kinda cool, doncha' think?

Good luck.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Keb' Mo': "Henry"

2011-01-13T12:28:00.004-06:00

It's a been too long since this site has featured house favorite Keb' Mo'. This piece is amazing because he incorporates two different styles. It has sort of a happy bluegrass or ballad pickin' thing going, then he transitions into some delta blues at key points in the song. Very clever. It's probably my favorite guitar piece right now, no joke. Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone. Be sure to check out the labels at the bottom of this post to similar material on this site.

Spotlight on Epiphone Zenith Bass (semi-acoustic)

2011-01-11T10:27:00.004-06:00

I came across this semi-hollow bass guitar because Guitar World recently awarded it the Gold Award for Overall Value. You can check that story out HERE. This is one beautiful, well-shaped, stylish, well-crafted instrument, ESPECIALLY when you consider that you can pick this up for well under a grand ($799-899 is what I've found online). I mean, just LOOK at this axe!

And Check out these basic specs (complete specs HERE):

- NanoFlex and NanoMag pickups

- 5-piece, hard maple/walnut neck

- Rosewood fingerboard and bridge

- Flame maple top

- Mahogany back & sides

- Custom chambered, semi-hollow body

- Black hardware

- Fretless version available.

This instrument is pretty cool! Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone. Don't forget to check out the labels at the very bottom of this post to see similar posts on this site.

Spotlight on Hoyer Buffel BKCE HAG 315 Guitar

2011-01-10T08:20:00.003-06:00

Hoyer dates back to 1874 when Franz Hoyer began making instruments in what is now the Czech Republic. Today the brand is owned by a UK company that markets the German-made instruments world wide. This model is sort of a jumbo cutaway, and what a fine instrument it is!

Check out these specs:

- Solid Spruce AA Top

- Rosewood sides and back

- Maple bindings

- Rosewood fretboard

- Bone nut

- Hoyer tuners with Pearl Effect buttons

- Fishman Classic 4T electronics

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone. You can click the label "Guitar Models" at the very bottom of this post to see more guitars highlighted on this site.

Win a Guitar Signed by Rodney Atkins

2011-01-07T08:19:00.004-06:00

I can't say I know anything about Rodney Atkins, but I came across THIS GIVEAWAY which is going to make somebody the lucky the winner of a signed acoustic guitar. Good luck!

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on Epiphone PR5-E Guitar

2011-01-06T08:18:00.005-06:00

Sometimes I highlight decked-out guitars, sometimes well-crafted guitars, & sometimes great "value" guitars. This is one of those value guitars. If you're a budding guitarist who wants to move up to a better axe or perhaps looking for a decent performing guitar but you can't afford a Martin or Gibson, you might check out Epiphone guitars, especially their PR5-E.

This guitar comes in various colors and shades (I especially like the Vintage Sunburst above) and usually goes around $280-$360. Does it sound like a Taylor? No. Does it have a nice sound? Absolutely. Check out these specs:

- eSonic System electronics

- Mahogany neck

- Rosewood fretboard with "Split-Diamond" inlays

- Select spruce top

Now this isn't that dream guitar you get after years of playing; but, it is a solid axe with nice sound, good electronics, & a very sharp look. I think it's ideal if you want to move up a step from an entry-level guitar or if you're starting out playing professionally & you can't yet justify dropping a grand on an axe!

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone. You can click the label "Guitar Models" at the bottom of this post to see the various guitars highlighted on this blog.

Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys: "Arkansas Traveler"

2011-01-04T12:04:00.003-06:00

In honor of the Arkansas Razorbacks playing in the Sugar Bowl tonight, here's a little something to celebrate. Here's bluegrass master Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys performing "Arkansas Traveler." Should be a great game.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

10,000 and Counting

2011-01-03T09:15:00.002-06:00

Now that the holiday season is wrapping up, I should be able to post more regularly again. I'm starting off the year with a cool milestone - the site has reached 10,000 hits! I'm glad folks enjoy my blogging about all things acoustic guitar.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Acoustic Version of Auld Lang Syne

2010-12-31T15:38:00.003-06:00

Happy New Year. I searched YouTube for an acoustic version of Auld Lang Syne and found this nice, subtle rendition of this traditional New Year's song. Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Old Crow Medicine Show: "Caroline"

2010-12-29T10:09:00.003-06:00

I think I'll end my holiday blogging drought with something fun. Here's an all-acoustic performance of "Caroline" by contemporary old-timey band (oxymoron?) Old Crow Medicine Show. I like how they just let each instrument add its own layer to this song. It has a great acoustic ambiance about it. Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on Foster Guitars "Prodigy" Acoustic Guitar

2010-12-23T06:42:00.003-06:00

Check out THIS LINK to see some guitars of the highest quality made by luthier Jimmy Foster in Covington, Louisiana. Most are jazz archtop models (which I intend to post about in the future), but the "Prodigy" is his flat top guitar. And what a beautiful flat top it is!

Check out these specs:

- Hand split carved spruce or cedar top

- 17 inch body width

- Select mahogany back & sides

- One piece mahogany neck joined at the 15th fret

- Venetian cutaway

- Adjustable steel truss rod

- Solid ebony tailpiece, pickguard, bridge, fingerboard, headstock, truss rod cover, & heel cap

- Gold plated tuners

- High gloss finish

- 6- or 7- string configuration

- TKL elite double arched hardshell case

Plus he offers a ton of other options such as inlays or sunburst colors. Make no mistake, this is a top flight guitar. It goes for $4,000. That might sound steep, but a comparable Gibson is at least twice that much.

Justin King: "Loco Motives"

2010-12-21T12:50:00.003-06:00

This instrumental is simply stunning. It has right-handed tapping, terrific rhythm playing, great melodic lines, harmonics all over the neck, great use of open strings, percussion, and it's only about 2 minutes, so it's far from being overdone. Plus the resonator guitar is perfect for this song. Yeah, I know I just posted a Justin King vid a couple days ago, but c'mon, can you really have too much? Nah. Enjoy

You can simply search for "Justin King" at the top left corner of this page & you'll find several amazing vids on this site.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

9000 and Counting

2010-12-20T08:10:00.003-06:00

Just thought I'd mention that the site has reached 9,000 visits. The vast majority of hits come from the USA, of course, but relatively substantial numbers of hits come from South Korea, Canada, and the UK. Thanks to everyone who stops by!

Steven Curtis Chapman: "Christmas is All in the Heart"

2010-12-19T07:56:00.001-06:00

Here's a little something for Sunday AND Christmas by one of my favorite guitar players. Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Justing King: "After the Harvest" (Instrumental)

2010-12-18T10:57:00.003-06:00

It doesn't get any better than this instrumental from Justin King. I love how he integrates so many techniques, from intricate little hammer-on runs to melodic bass lines. I also love his chord choices - he goes WAY beyond just majors and minors. His Orchestra Model guitar provides rich mids and bass notes. It also gives the highs a rich, warm sound and takes the brass out of them. Great sound. Great stuff. Enjoy

You can check these other vids of him playing guitar on this site: "Winter on the Hill"; "August Train"; "Phunkdified"; and "Untitled Project"

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on Breedlove Phoenix Guitar

2010-12-16T08:39:00.002-06:00

Check out this beauty made by Breedlove guitars. It's the Phoenix concert model. The redwood top makes for a warm and thick sound, what they describe as a "smoky tone." I love the overall look, the tonewoods, the headstock, you name it.

Check out these specs:

- Solid redwood top

- Select Ziricote back and sides

- Spoked Abalone rosette

- Bloodwood binding with herringbone top purfling

- Bone nut and saddle

- Ebony fingerboard and bridge

- Bloodwood fingerboard binding

- Phoenix inlay pattern on fretboard

- Ebony headstock overlay

- Chrome tuners

- Electronics available

What a beauty! This is a lifetime guitar, folks, definitely worthy of an acoustic spotlight. Click the label "Guitar Models" at the bottom of this post to see more great guitars on this site.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Stephen Seifert: "Whiskey before Breakfast" (Dulcimer)

2010-12-15T08:55:00.004-06:00

I think this is the first example of dulcimer playing on this site. It's good to include to a wider array of acoustic musicians. This song is a terrific rendition of the bluegrass instrumental standard "Whiskey before Breakfast" played on a mountain dulcimer by Stephen Seifert. You can check out his website HERE. Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on Luna Woodland Spalted Maple Guitar

2010-12-14T18:23:00.003-06:00

Check out this beautiful instrument made by Luna Guitars. Its body style is "grand concert," a type that is becoming more and more common. Grand concert guitars are made to achieve lots of sound (even when uamplified) are known as versatile guitars emphasize the mids and bass notes while providing both rich chords & warm picking.

Check out these specs:

- Spalted maple top

- Spalted maple back & sides

- Rosewood crescent at the soundhole

- Mahogany neck

- Rosewood fretboard

- Gloss finish

- B-band electronics w/ tuner

It doesn't specify what the bridge is, but it appears to be rosewood too. This is a great-looking axe! Luna is based in Tampa Florida & seeks to provide high quality entry-level guitars. You can click the label "Guitar Models" at the very bottom of this post to check out more cool guitars.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on Norman B20 Folk Guitar

2010-12-13T10:25:00.004-06:00

Norman is a Canadian guitar-making company in Quebec under the larger umbrella of Godin Guitars. I love the simple yet classy look of this folk model. This folk model, with deeper curves than a dreadnought, a more compact body, and great tonewoods is made to emphasize warm mid-tones for fingerpickers and flatpickers. It's not what a rhythm guitarist in a band would want (although it could still get by in that context). It's definitely more of a picker's guitar.

Check out these specs:

- Solid, select, pressure-tested Spruce top

- Canadian wild cherry back & sides

- Canadian silver-leaf maple neck

- Rosewood fingerboard & bridge

- Tusq nut & saddle

- Semi-gloss custom polished finish

- Optional Fishman electronics

This is a very nice model, definitely worthy of having the Spotlight shine its way. Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone. You can click the label "Guitar Models" at the very bottom of this post to see more guitars highlighted on this site.

Eric Clapton: "Change the World"

2010-12-10T15:31:00.003-06:00

Here's a semi-unplugged version of "Change the World." I know Clapton's claim to fame came via the electric guitar, and I definitely love his electric rock and blues playing, but I like his acoustic playing even more. This rendition is cool b/c it has the full ensemble, complete with backup singers, yet it still features two acoustic guitars right up front. For me, the acoustic sound literally defines this song! Enjoy

Here are links to other Clapton vids on this site:

- Layla

- Discussing and Playing Robert Johnson

- Love in Vain

- Tears in Heaven

- Malted Milk

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

8000 Plateau Reached

2010-12-10T08:57:00.001-06:00

Very cool! This site has now surpassed 8,000 hits. It's at 8,139 right now, but who's counting? Thanks!

Win an Awesome Set of Dugain Guitar Picks

2010-12-09T09:39:00.006-06:00

Check out THIS LINK to put your name in the hat for a chance to win this awesome collection of Dugain boutique guitar picks.

Check out this description:

Dugain Boutique Picks
(set of 48 picks - includes display case)

*Made out of different noble woods, stone and metal
*Each pick delivers a unique tone
*Ergonomic picks with thumb and index carvings
*Helps guitarists play faster

Precious and noble woods: the original Dugain for its natural non-slippery qualities, offers sonorities more or less warm depending on the wood density, the most tender l’alisier rose, the toughest Snakewood, as well as rosewoodand ebony. (Available for left handed)

Coconut shell : offer higher sonorities then wood and more resistant to usage.

Horn: the horn picks are often associated with a bluesy sound. (Available for left handed)

Bone: a greater wear resistance, rich and powerful sonority, give the most brilliance of all dugains, recommended for rock’n’roll, hard rock. (Available for left handed)

Acetate: aspect and sonority approaching the sound of scale of tortoise (Available for left handed).

Delrin: the warmest and most marrow sound of all the range, recommended to play guitars with nylon strings.

Acrylic resin: strangeness of imagination, offers a very dynamic attack, little coloured.

Various stones: Red jasper, pink quartz, unakite, hematite, agate, aventurine. They all offer different sonorities, to discover... everlasting!

MSRP $700

Bryan Sutton: "Texas Gales" (Instrumental)

2010-12-08T15:44:00.003-06:00

Here's some smokin' hot flatpickin' from acoustic guitarist Bryan Sutton. Some might call this bluegrass, but others like the folks from Old Crow Medicine Show would say it's actually "old-timey" guitar. Either way, it's fun to watch and hear! Enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.

Spotlight on Wechter PL-5713 Parlor Guitar

2010-12-08T09:08:00.003-06:00

Here's another great-looking parlor guitar, this one made by Wechter. It's a little pricey ($669 retail) - perhaps one would be better served to check out THIS POST about the Art & Luthiery "Ami" parlor guitar that you can find for about half the price but still high quality. If you're looking for quality AND some extra bells & whistles, too, then this Wechter is a very attractive guitar & still a much better deal than, say, a similar Gibson guitar that easily costs 3-4 grand.

Check out these great specs:

- Elite hardshell case included

- Solid spruce top w/ scalloped braces

- Ivoroid binding

- Abalone rosette (around the soundhole)

- Nato neck

- Rosewood fingerboard

- High gloss natural finish

Plus it just looks sharp. I love the shape of the bridge and access to 14 frets on the neck. You can click the label "Guitar Models" at the very bottom of this post to see more great acoustics highlighted on this site.

Thanks for stopping by the Acoustic Spotlight Zone.