
2. Gibson Melody Maker
This is by no means the most obscure model on this list, but it is probably the most popular and it is definitely the most enduring. Simplicity is very often beauty, and the Melody Maker is just a beautifully refined guitar. No contours, small understated headstock, set neck, P-90s. Beautiful.
It was originally introduced in the late 50s and endured a number of changes to its design, it was then discontinued in 1971 only to be reintroduced in 1999.
The short scale version was minuscule, and a thing of beauty, everything seemed much more refined when it was such a miniature thing.
The Les Paul Melody Maker is also a popular model, which is essentially a single-cut version of the Melody Maker. Recently Gibson went a little bit mad and released the Flying V Melody Maker and the Explorer Melody Maker, but you can't beat the original.
Don't know if I can agree with your assessment of the EDS-1275. John McLauglin played it before Jimmy Page did -- many blues/jazz guys did (Earl Hooker is another that comes to mind.) After Page's custom one was built many other rock guitarists took it up as a way to get multi tones without having to switch instruments. Better pickup and amp technology has more or less obviated the need for a doubleneck, which is a huge and unwieldy thing to carry around on stage, but Gibson still makes them after nearly 50 years. So not sure anybody's getting laughed off stage for having one.
13-Oct-12 04:18 PM
I have to agree with Wayne on the EDS-1275. There is no way it's obscure. Besides being rare, obscure means that not many people know about it. Also, the Melody Maker shouldn't be on the list. What about Gibson's attempts at entering the superstrat market?
24-Oct-12 02:49 PM