GB 7 String

We shouldn't overlook the visual appeal in purchasing a high-end guitar. The custom shops of Fender, Gibson and other high-volume brands do a credible job, but the one-off excellence that Doug Harrison achieves is truly memorable.

Setting aside for the moment the acoustic pleasure implicit in one of his instruments, I would comment on the sight alone of his most recent creation. The Brazilian rosewood of the fingerboard and appointments has a drama all its own. Bold streaks of orange interact with more subtle hues of red and brown. These have been made all the more startling with bookmatched veneer on the peghead, imparting subtle vibrations of colour.

If you have a chance to see at first-hand this peghead, you will be struck by the subtle interplay of multiple veneers, made visible by a chamfered edge, a la Dave Wren. I particularly like the Engelmann spruce, so stark and uncompromisingly white. Its grain is exceedingly tight and straight, in startling contrast to the errant jet-black streaks of grain in the bold mahogany back and neck. The French ivoroid binding gives an almost three-dimensional effect, changing its depth in accordance with the carved archtop.

Perhaps it should be a mantle decoration, rather than a musical instrument, but that idea you will quickly put aside, once you hear it.
T.R.(owner G.B. 7string)

Harrison Guitars
www.harrisonguitars.com