Customer Reviews

The Gibson 335: Its History and Its Players

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I thoroughly enjoyed Adrian's view of the history of the 335 and its variants. Having grown up in the "335 era" and selling guitars for a time, I related to many of the historic factors highlighted in the book that impacted the success of this wonderful instrument. I also learned a lot about one of my favorite guitars in this too-brief history. I wish there had been more attention given to some of the smaller technical details of various years and changes, along with even more pictures (both B&W and color), as well as set-up details and recommendations that were not included. However what I did find in this book was very informative and useful in helping me correctly restore my own 60's ES-355TDC. I also would have liked to have seen more interviews with famous 335 players. But, as the only source of focused info on the 335 series that I know of, this is a "must-have" reference. Thanks for filling this void Adrian!

Good book, but a bit short. Lots of pictures. Considering it's the only book I've found devoted to the 335, it's a must have, but would have liked more information.

To have an entire book written about a specific type of guitar, that guitar type must be really something, and the Gibson ES-335 has proven worthy over the many years since its introduction. The author covers various aspects of the ES-335 from its origin, construction, parts, versions, copies, and players. Since I bought a new Gibson ES-335 back in 1980, I can understand what makes this instrument so appealing to so many musicians. It is a guitar that can produce great sounds in a variety of styles. As a blues/R&B/soul music fan, I wanted a sound that I heard on many a record at the time. As I checked out my kind of music, I found many players who were playing and recording with the ES-type of guitar. Most played Gibson ES-style guitars, but several played other brands that followed the Gibson prototype, such as: Epiphone (owned by Gibson), Guild, Gretsch, etc. The book mentions these other brands, including Heritage which was started by former Gibson employees in 1985 and which is still made in the original Gibson factory in Kalamazoo, MI. And yes, they are still making ES-335-style guitars with their H535 and H555 models two examples. Guitarists that play ES-type guitars who have inspired me over the years include: B.B. King, Jimmy Dawkins, Magic Sam, Freddie King, Eddie Clearwater, Little Milton, Lowell Fulson, Otis Rush, Jimmy Johnson, W.C. Clark, Luther Allison, Maurice John Vaughn, Walter "Wolfman" Washington, Rusty Zinn, Jim McCarty, and Del Shannon. The book includes many photos of ES-335 and other versions, along with the pros that play or played them. My only negative on the book is the author's inclusion of a few guitarists that were not true long-term ES-335 players, but only played the instrument for a relative short time.

The definitive book on the Gibson 335 and related guitars (e.g., the 355, 345, 330, etc.). Lots of black & white photos and original manufacturers ads and such, excellent descriptive details, and some color photos. A treasured gift for the 335 guitarist!

If you one a 335, Dot, 339, 175, or anything Gibby, Epi, or CLOSE to an ES-335 design, you need this book.

Anyone who has ever owned and/or played a Gibson ES-335 guitar needs to read the history of this famous instrument. Packed with facts and photos, it traces the heritage of argueably the best and most popular guitar ever produced by Gibson.

Excellent book for 335 owners or someone interested in acquiring one of these fine instruments. Well organized, well written with good pictures of the guitar in its various guises and the folks who played it. It even lists significant knock-offs.

A "Must Read" for anyone wanting to know about the 335's intricacies and varieties.

An essential book to Know Gibson ES335 and family.
Complete and full of interesting information.
It may takes time to get all the dates it provides.
If you've got a 335 or you're thinking getting one, this book is a must!

I had high expectations for this book, however some mistakes have dampened my enjoyment. These are unfortuanate because this is a nice read and the overall template for this book is quite good.

1. Page 4 "Pete Townsend" should be "Townshend"
2. The title of the book is "The Gibson 335" so why is more space devoted to Heritage and others as oppossed to Gibson's own Historic Division and it's current models?
3. A few of the photos are repeated.

Adrian, get a new editor and/or proof reader for the next book.