To get right into it - this 8lb 2oz Stratocaster is right there with any of the boutique builders we represent in terms of feel, quality, and tone. No surprises given Levi's credentials, it's more to help put this guitar in context for those familiar with a range of boutique builders - Lentz, D'pergo, Grosh, etc...

The neck is incredibly comfy and features a great taper, rolled edges, and fret work. We also love the barely there MoP dots that echo the silver / blue theme of the guitar - a nice, creative touch.

Plugged in, the Josefina pickups live up to the hype. This is a mismatched set of pickups - a '69 Strat (neck), a '60/'63 (middle - reverse wound), and a Fat '50s in the bridge position. Each position on the 5-way switch is remarkably musical and inspiring, and truthfully, exactly what you want in a great Strat (to our ears). We realize these are subjective waters, but we are looking at a best-of-the-best guitar in terms of what the Custom Shop offers.

We can't recommend this guitar enough, especially if Strats are your thing. Levi will definitely be on our radar as he starts what is sure to be a long, successful career.