Hey Friend,

I’ve almost got the new computer system to a point where I can start being productive again, so with any luck, we’ll get back to the key of E minor tomorrow.

In a world dominated by guitar brands like Gibson and Fender, sometimes we need a little reminder that there are other makers out there. Gretsch and Rickenbacker come to mind.

When I was a kid I took lessons at a music store in Cleveland Heights from a guy who played in a band with Joe Walsh (before he was famous). That store was Academy Music, and they stocked Gretsch guitars . I thought I’d end up owning one of the solid-body models one day, but my heart got stolen away later by BC Rich.

Another guitar I got turned on to by a few artists is Rickenbacker. The semi-hollow body tones in early songs by Bryan Adams and Tom Petty have always been sweet to my ears, and I’d love to get my hands on a Rickenbacker featured on the album cover of “Cuts Like A Knife.”

Recently, Premier Guitar had a short article detailing the history of Rickenbacker. So being the selfish bastard I am, I thought you might enjoy looking at some guitar porn. Here’s "Eight Decades of Rickenbacker,” by Charles Saufely. 

Compared to most of the single and double cutaway guitars on the market today, these have a more exotic look and sound.

Anyway, my mistress calls, and she’s a cruel one, so I must leave you. Back at ‘cha tomorrow...

Peace~

Dave