Gibson J-45 (1953)

Can this 1953 Gibson J-45 be that clean? It can, and it is. Recently unearthed just north of us in New Hampshire, this guitar came from the original owner's family, through a friend of the shop. While it's been played (as evidenced by the errant pick scratches seen here and there on the top), this J-45 is shockingly clean, with an unfaded sunburst finish and surfaces that shine almost like they did when they were brand new. The tuner buttons and saddle were recently replaced; and some braces were reglued (making it no different than any other J-45, we suppose). But aside from the amazing condition ... let's talk sound. This is as impressive as 1950's J-45s get! It's particularly lightweight and responsive, with more low end growl than you'd imagine and a good amount of jangle in its voice. The hollow, woody sound that has made a J-45 THE staple of the singer-songwriter set is on gorgeous display here -- and we think anyone waiting for a special J-45 would be beautifully served by this one.