In 1961, the Les Paul received a
radical change in style that took the model towards a thinner
double cut body with sharply pointed horns. After Les Paul’s
discontent with the model and disassociation with Gibson due
to his divorce, a new name was appointed - the SG.
The reissue we are reviewing features
the “bat-wing” pickguard and nickel-plated hardware of the original
1961 model, which has been purchased, used.
Specifications
This 1961 SG features a mahogany
neck set in to a body at the 22nd fret. The neck
is 1960s slim-taper, with a crest inlay and sports a rosewood
fingerboard adorned with trapezoid inlays. The SG uses the usual
tune-o-matic bridge and stopbar arrangement, which are nickel-plated.
Four Black top hat knobs with silver inserts, and an adjacent
three-way switch control the two 57 classic pickups.
Fit & Finish
As expected of a high-class instrument
such as a Gibson no issues are to be found. Everything fits
well and tight and the fretwork is superb. Even on this used
SG no issues can be found that affect its playability.
Sounds
The SG has a unique sound, thinner
than a Les Paul, but warmer than a Fender type guitar. Clean
it sounds mellow on the neck pickup and sparkly on the bridge.
Overdriven raunchy tones reminiscent of Angus Young’s sonic
arsenal, automatically invite one to perform a rendition of
“Highway to Hell”!
Summary
If you like the Les Paul sound but
not the weight, and don’t mind a lighter crispier tone then
the SG is for you. Many famous players agree than the SG is
one of Gibson’s finest.
By Ernest H Slade
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