Neck deep in the guitar world for years, Gerald Sheppard has honed both his eyes and ears to pick out the best tonewood possible, and to appoint his instruments in fine style. This 2008 Madrigal Grand Concert comes to us with Amazon Rosewood back and sides (straight-grained and chocolate-dark), German Spruce on top, Koa bindings, and Blue Paua Abalone trim. Gold Gotoh 510 tuners are smooth operators, and between the posts you’ll find a carefully cut rose inlaid into the headstock. Fossilized Walrus Ivory nut and saddle, Venetian Cutaway, and delicate red body purflings complete the picture.
This Sheppard has had 10 years to open up, and to our ears it hasn’t wasted a single day. Extra pop in the middle register, coupled with crisp trebles, makes for a focused voice that projects clarity, and a tinge of warmth with a soft attack.
Other keywords: lutherie, luthier, fingerstyle, amazonian rosewood, fossil ivory