Acoustic Magazine June 2016 Back Issue

Everyone has a favourite guitar model. And I don’t mean a favourite guitar, but a favourite shape. Growing up I loved the power of the dreadnought, but in my mid-20s had the chance to play a Collings OM2H. The experience was a game-changer for me, and OMs became my new favourite. I’m fortunate to have a Martin OM28 in my collection and I absolutely love it. One body shape that never really got a look-in, though, was the parlour. For me, they were a bit of an enigma. Not very loud, and often producing a ‘boxy’ tone, I couldn’t get on with them. However, for this issue I reviewed a special, one-off Faith Signature Series all-walnut parlour and, such was its quality and tone, I was again forced to reconsider my view. Sometimes get ‘stuck’ with what we believe to be our favourites. I’m not sure I would have reached for this guitar in a shop, but being put in a situation where I had to become well-acquainted with the instrument broadened my mind. I found myself playing different styles than what I normally would, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It just shows how different guitars can open your mind, musically speaking, and take you to unexplored places. So, a suggestion. Next time you’re in a shop, avoid playing guitar types you’re familiar with and try something altogether new – you might surprise yourself.
Thinking ahead, we are already looking forward to the London Acoustic Show in September. Tickets are now on sale and some of the artists announced. Put the dates in your diary: 10-11 September at the now-familiar Olympia London venue. Lastly, I’m sure you’d join me in wishing Acoustic columnist, and all-round good guy, Gordon Giltrap a speedy recovery. Gordon recently underwent surgery to treat a rare form of cancer he is battling, and we trust he’ll be on his feet playing again soon. All at Acoustic extend our best wishes to Gordon and his wife Hilary.
Steve Harvey, Editor