In the world of rock and roll, certain guitars have earned legendary status, and among them, the 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard holds a place of unparalleled reverence. Often referred to as the "Holy Grail" of electric guitars, its mystique lies in its vintage tone, unmatched craftsmanship, and the iconic rock anthems it has graced over the decades. Now, thanks to the collaboration between Gibson and metal maestro Kirk Hammett, the iconic "Greeny" Les Paul Standard has been reborn, capturing the spirit and soul of the original while adding a distinctive twist.
**Design and Aesthetics:**
The Gibson Kirk Hammett Greeny Les Paul Standard immediately demands attention with its stunning vintage sunburst finish, precisely replicating the unique patina of Peter Green's legendary 1959 Les Paul. The meticulously aged body and hardware not only give it an authentic vintage look but also contribute to the guitar's overall tonal character. The hand-picked maple top and mahogany body provide the ideal foundation for recreating the legendary Greeny tone, ensuring that this guitar is as much a visual masterpiece as it is a musical one.
**Playability and Craftsmanship:**
Gibson's commitment to quality craftsmanship is evident in every detail of this instrument. The neck profile is a comfortable '59 rounded C-shape, allowing for effortless playability and hours of comfort on stage or in the studio. The fretwork is impeccable, with Gibson's historic medium-jumbo frets providing excellent note articulation and effortless bending. Whether you're shredding through high-gain solos or dialing it back for some soulful blues, this guitar feels like an extension of your own musical expression.
**Tonal Versatility:**
The Greeny Les Paul Standard boasts a pair of custom-wound humbuckers, meticulously designed to capture the nuances of the original PAF pickups while offering modern versatility. This guitar can growl with the ferocity of a thunderstorm or sing sweetly like a gentle breeze. Its dynamic tonal range is perfect for any genre, from the blistering metal riffs that Kirk Hammett is known for to the smooth, expressive blues that made the original Greeny famous.
**The Greeny Magic:**
What truly sets this guitar apart is its ability to channel the ghostly spirit of Peter Green's legendary '59 Les Paul. The 'out-of-phase' setting, achieved by dialing in both pickups and rolling back the tone knob, allows players to capture that distinct, haunting tone that made classics like "Black Magic Woman" and "Albatross" unforgettable. It's like owning a piece of rock history, encapsulated in a modern masterpiece.
In resurrecting the iconic 'Greeny' Les Paul Standard, Gibson and Kirk Hammett have breathed new life into a classic instrument, marrying vintage aesthetics with modern playability and versatility. This guitar pays homage to the past while forging its own identity as a genuine rock and roll powerhouse. Whether you're a devoted Les Paul enthusiast or simply in search of a versatile, tonally rich instrument, the Gibson Kirk Hammett Greeny 1959 Les Paul Standard stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of a timeless guitar design.
In the hands of Kirk Hammett or any guitarist, the Greeny Les Paul Standard promises to be a tool for creating musical magic for years to come. It's not just a guitar; it's a legend reborn.
Vintage Vibes Revisited: Gibson Kirk Hammett Greeny 1959 Les Paul Standard Review
