Gibson Country Western (1960)

This 1960 Gibson Country Western is one of the finest-sounding examples we've heard. Introduced in the mid-1950's, the Country Western is essentially a natural top version of the ever-popular Southern Jumbo. And this 1960 example maintains much of what made those earlier Gibsons sound so damn good--lightly built, appropriately braced, and relatively clean workmanship. In a few short years, this model, along with many other Gibson flattops, would begin the slow decline towards the heavier-built, sloppily-thrown-together output that came to embody the 70's nadir. This guitar is everything players covet in a Gibson: woody and big sounding with lots of headroom for heavier playing. It's clean and forceful in all registers, especially up the neck. Good action, although the saddle is at its lowest point. The top exhibits some slight bellying, common to this vintage, and its corresponding dip north of the bridge area. Bridge plate is original and very clean with very little internal wear near the bridge pin holes. The tuners have been replaced with gold Grovers. Frets are newer with good height and no wear. Once again, the sound if this one is hard to beat; a real joy to play.