Unearthing the Uncommon: Exploring Underappreciated Gibson Guitar Models
Within the wide realm of guitar manufacturers, Gibson stands as one of the most recognizable and revered names, particularly noted for its iconic Les Paul and SG models. However, infiltrating the shadows beyond these well-lit stages, there exists an arsenal of lesser-known Gibson models, each boasting a unique personality and unparalleled character. These often-overlooked instruments, including the likes of Les Paul Junior, Melody Maker, EDS-1275, Explorer, Firebird, Nighthawk, and Blueshawk, harbor untold stories and undiscovered virtues. This essay will spotlight these hidden gems, diving into their birth, development, and distinct characteristics, identifying their unique tones and aesthetic qualities, and taking a renewed look at their place within Gibson’s grand legacy.
Table of Contents
The Birth of the Les Paul Junior & Melody Maker
The Gibson MMG: A ’70s Rarity
The Gibson MMG (Modern Music Group), released in the 1970s, is an elusive guitar model due to its limited production. Born from the era’s spirit of innovation and experimentation, the MMG is remarkable for its unconventional shape and construction, featuring a unique accordion-like body and an adjustable bolt-on neck.
Despite its innovative design, the Gibson MMG didn’t experience widespread popularity at the time, possibly due to its unusual aesthetics, which deviated significantly from Gibson’s canonical designs. This difference made it less appealing to fans accustomed to the company’s traditional models.
Sound-wise, the MMG is favored for being exceptionally loud and clear, owing to its body design which facilitates enhanced resonance. It’s also versatile and suitable for a wide range of music genres, from hard rock to smooth jazz. Nonetheless, its unique selling points didn’t translate into substantial sales, contributing to its status as a lesser-known Gibson model.
Gibson’s Marauder: The Uncherished Hybrid
Designated as Gibson’s answer to Fender’s Stratocaster, the Gibson Marauder surfaced during the mid-1970s. Co-designed by the famous luthier Bill Lawrence, the Marauder inherited design elements from both Gibson’s Les Paul range and Fender’s Stratocaster.
The Marauder sports a single-coil pickup in the neck and a humbucker in the bridge, granting it tonal versatility. It’s also physically distinct, featuring a contoured body reminiscent of a Strat but with the headstock of a Les Paul.
Unfortunately, the Marauder was met with a lukewarm reception upon its debut. Gibson fans, typically more aligned with the brand’s traditional aesthetics, found the amalgamation jarring. Conversely, Fender enthusiasts weren’t enticed to switch allegiance to Gibson’s imitation of their favorite model.
While not overwhelmingly popular at its launch, the Gibson Marauder today is considered a collectible item, sought after for its hybrid characteristics and its representation of a fascinating era in Gibson’s history. However, the limited production and sales have kept it from achieving the fame of Gibson’s classic Les Paul and SG models, rendering it a somewhat hidden gem in the company’s guitar arsenal.
Wrapping Up
While the Gibson MMG and Marauder may initially have been under-appreciated due to their limited production, they undeniably harbor distinctive characteristics that make them worthwhile. These guitars, born in an era of innovation, embody Gibson’s adaptable nature and its readiness to break away from the familiar, an aspect that continues to captivate the attention of guitar enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Exploring the Double Neck EDS-1275
Exploring the EDS-1275: Gibson’s Extraordinary Double-Necked Marvel
The EDS-1275, a lesser-known gem in the Gibson collection, might not immediately draw attention amidst the company’s vast lineup of spectacular instruments. But a closer look reveals its exceptional intricacies, with a host of remarkable features that define its prominence within the Gibson family. This further uncovers Gibson’s commitment to pushing the boundaries in their craftsmanship.
A Dissection of Design Details
Visual appeal aside, the EDS-1275’s true talent lies in its design, particularly its double-neck structure. This isn’t just for show; it serves a distinctive purpose. The top neck is a 12-string guitar, boasting bright, shimmering tones; the bottom neck is a traditional 6-string, meant for more typically recognizable guitar melodies. The Gibson EDS-1275 is effectively two full instruments packed into one body.
Distinct Formation and Functionality
One of the key elements of the EDS-1275 is the dual set of volume and tone controls in conjunction with a three-way pickup selector. The layout allows alternate use or simultaneous playing of both necks, a design marketed as Gibson’s “Fretted Instrument X-plorer” system (FIX). With its unique design, the EDS-1275 caters to musicians who seek to experiment with the broader tonal palette it offers.
The Allure of Tonewood Choices
The EDS-1275 model takes the construction of tonewoods seriously. Traditional to Gibson’s build quality, the body is a solid piece of mahogany, and both the necks are made from one piece of mahogany covered with a rosewood fretboard. This wood choice speaks volumes about the guitar’s tonal focus, leaning towards the warm, resonating sound that mahogany is renowned for, further embellished with the sweetness of the rosewood fretboard.
Why the Double-Neck Model Might Be Overlooked
While the double-neck model may seem visually ostentatious, its global recognition has been somewhat overshadowed by Gibson’s other single-neck models. This could be due to its hefty size and weight, making it more challenging to maneuver during live performances when compared to its single-necked counterparts. The EDS-1275 is also a niche model, ideally suited for musicians who require fast switchovers between 6-string and 12-string tones within the same song, such as in genres like prog-rock or specific types of blues.
Perhaps a Hidden Gem in the Making
Despite these factors, the EDS-1275 is an understated gem that deserves more recognition. Its distinct design and tonal variety combined with Gibson’s renowned build quality and charming vintage style make it a unique find. From the first touch, musicians have been intrigued by this model’s potential to produce a wide range of sounds and styles, making it a guitar worth discovering for enthusiasts and hobbyists alike. The EDS-1275 can stand its ground against any of Gibson’s more well-known models and could certainly be a music-making diamond in the rough if given a chance.
The Famous Fondness for the EDS-1275
Despite its initial underappreciation, the EDS-1275 has received some high-profile endorsements. Musicians like Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin have chosen to play this model, demonstrating its unique capabilities in songs like “Stairway to Heaven.” Other prominent musicians such as Don Felder of the Eagles, Alex Lifeson of Rush, and Geddy Lee have also favored the EDS-1275, further proving its viability and often underrated potential.
The Gibson EDS-1275, with its unique dual necks and tonewood combinations, has the potential to provide an extraordinary variation in tone, making it a hidden gem that’s waiting to be explored by guitar lovers. While it might not be as popular as some models, its possibilities for fostering creativity should not be disregarded, rather it should be a focal point for those seeking musical exploration.
Showcasing the Explorer & Firebird
Diving into the Unusual: Gibson Explorer and Firebird
Embraced by a particular group of guitar gifts, Gibson’s Explorer and Firebird models are known for their distinct designs. Their attractiveness extends beyond the physical form, subtly influencing the sound they produce. This unique character is rooted in its unique design and contributes significantly to its charm and desirability.
Gibson Explorer
The Gibson Explorer, launched in 1958, was a shocking departure from conventional guitar design at the time. Instead of the round contours popular among many guitars, Explorer incorporated sharp angles and a futuristic look. This was a design ahead of its time, being too radical even for the rock ‘n’ roll era of the late 1950s. The guitar was phased out in 1963 due to lackluster sales, only to be reintroduced in the late 70s when musicians looking for a unique edge rediscovered it.
Gibson Firebird
On the other hand, the Gibson Firebird, which debuted in 1963, brought a more radical change. Instead of the traditional set-neck design used in previous Gibson models, the Firebird employed a neck-through-body construction. This not only resulted in a different playing feel but also affected the resonance and sustain of the guitar. Furthermore, the Firebird had a unique ‘reversed’ body design, which, rather than the usual sloping downward to the right, sloped down to the left.
Impact of the Aesthetic Choices
The aesthetic choices in both Explorer and Firebird models had a significant impact on the sound they produced. For instance, the angular body and large headstock of the Explorer lead to a unique tonal character, with clear highs and beefy mids, ideal for rock and metal. The body design affected the weight distribution, creating a comfortable playing experience.
Similarly, the Firebird’s neck-through construction contributed to an increased resonance and sustain, providing an earthy growl and rich harmonics that were different from the tonal properties of other Gibson models. The reverse body design, besides being a distinctive aesthetic feature, gave the guitar a different feel and balance, further distinguishing its sound and playability.
Needle in the Haystack: Why were they overshadowed?
Despite their unique design and sound, both the Explorer and Firebird were overshadowed by their more mainstream counterparts, particularly the Les Paul and the SG, which continued to define the Gibson brand. The reasons for this are multiple.
The radical designs of both these models, though now celebrated, were initially deemed too forward-looking for their time, leading to poor initial sales. Musicians, especially in the 50s and early 60s, were not ready for such severe aesthetic and design changes.
Furthermore, the music industry had yet to evolve to the heavier sounds and audacious performances supported by the Explorer and Firebird. These models found their true champions with the rise of hard rock and heavy metal music in the 70s and 80s, where their aggressive aesthetics and distinctive tones were more appreciated.
Introduction
While Gibson’s iconic Les Paul or SG models usually steal the spotlight, some unique and undervalued guitars in their lineup are worth exploring. Among these lesser-known gems are the radical Gibson Explorer and Firebird designs that, despite their slower acceptance in the music world due to their distinctive aesthetics, are packed with character and offer unique sound profiles that any electric guitar lover would appreciate.
Photo by yurii_stupen on Unsplash
Analysing the Nighthawk & Blueshawk
Blues-Inspired, Unconventional Gibson Models
As a lauded name in the guitar industry, Gibson’s reputation for superior craftsmanship, meticulous detailing, and unparalleled sound is undisputed. Over the years, alongside their celebrated models such as the Les Paul and SG, Gibson has also launched a collection of lesser-known designs inspired by the blues and tailored to meet specialized market demands.
A perfect example of this is the Gibson Firebird. Introduced in 1963 to rival Fender’s offset guitars like the Jazzmaster and Jaguar, the Firebird flaunts a reverse body design, unique ‘banjo-style’ tuners, and a six-in-line headstock. The guitar, equipped with mini-humbucking pickups, can produce the rich, bluesy tones that have become synonymous with Gibson’s signature sound.
Design Aspects and Wood Choices
Gibson’s choice of tonewood has always played a significant role in their guitar manufacturing. The ES-330, a hidden gem of Gibson, for instance, features a fully hollow body made from maple and poplar, with a mahogany neck. Such a combination of tonewoods provides a bright but balanced resonance, an ideal quality for blues and jazz musicians craving that gritty, soulful tone.
Another lesser-known model, the Gibson Explorer, stood apart with a futuristic body shape, making it less popular upon its initial release. With a solid mahogany body and neck, the Explorer offers excellent sustain and a warm, rich tone favored by musicians playing heavier styles of blues-rock.
Unmatched Versatility in Sound
Models like the Gibson ES-137 provide this kind of unmatched versatility. Although relatively unknown, the ES-137 excels in blues, jazz, and rock genres. Combining the semi-hollow body style with a single cutaway design, it offers a broader sonic palette, from the warm and rounded vintage tones to the snappy twang, perfect for blues progressions and jazz riffs.
Similarly, the Gibson SG Special, a less glamourized variation of the SG Standard, provides a fat, meaty sound despite its slim profile. With its pair of P-90 pickups, this lighter-weight model is capable of delivering a raw and punchy tone ideal for classic blues.
Why These Models Remain Underrated
Despite their top-notch quality and versatility, most of these lesser-known Gibson models haven’t been able to hit the mainstream like the Les Paul or SG standard. The primary reasons for this may be their unconventional design aspects, like the Explorer’s futuristic shape or the Firebird’s reverse body and headstock.
Also, they often tend to be overshadowed by their more popular counterparts. For instance, despite SG Special’s exceptional value and sound performance, it often ends up in the shadows of SG Standard.
Overall Hidden Gems
Overall, these hidden gems in the Gibson lineup present an intriguing mixture of design, functionality, and sound, which are worth discovering, especially for blues enthusiasts. The cavernous depth of Gibson’s catalog is brimming with such overlooked treasures that offer uniqueness both in terms of their visual aesthetic and tonal range. The joy for any Gibson enthusiast or hobbyist lies in stepping off the beaten path and exploring these less-trodden models.
Even hidden in the shadows of Gibson’s superstars, these lesser-known guitar models offer instrumentalists a wealth of untapped potential. Their unique traits, stories of creation, and intrinsic sound dynamics make them exceptionally interesting, valuable, and worth exploring for those with an adventurous musical spirit. Offering much more than meets the eye, the Les Paul Junior, Melody Maker, EDS-1275, Explorer, Firebird, Nighthawk, and Blueshawk stand as a testament to Gibson’s commitment to innovation and diversity. These models, each in their own right, reinforce the timeless quality and beauty attributed to Gibson and invite musicians to embark on uncharted sonic adventures.
