Benedetto GA35 Semi Hollow Autumburst, 2018

I am a huge fan of organ trios. Most of my favorite guitarists during my formative years were veterans of that classic format. Pat Martino's brilliance with organist Trudy Pitts on his first solo album, El Hombre, blew me away.

I'll never forget listening to Wes Montgomery and Jimmy Smith on the classic album Dynamic Duo. I wore out the grooves on my lp trying to learn Wes's solo on "Night Train." So many great guitarists helped define jazz guitar in the company of a B3 - Grant Green, George Benson, Bobby Broome, Kenny Burrell, to name but a few.

Robert Benedetto needs no introduction, but most people know of him through his archtops. His semi-hollow instruments are truly worthy of your attention, too.

The Benedetto GA35 semi-hollow model might be the perfect guitar for an organ trio. Like most semi-hollow guitars, it doesn't have feedback issues at high volumes. But, thanks to Bob's vision, its voice is unique. This Benedetto has a modern voice that speaks clearly and richly and can cut through the denseness of a B3 Hammond without sacrificing its distinctive sonic character. Beyond that genre, it goes without saying that this a guitar that will satisfy the player no matter the style of music, be it rock, jazz, or blues, etc.

Autumnburst is my favorite of all of Benedetto's finishes, especially on a flame maple top. The body of the GA35 is solid chambered woods, not laminates. As a result, this is not simply a version of a 335 but more of a professional guitarist's gig-ready boutique semi hollow archtop. As with all of Bob's instruments, the playability and fit, and finish are beyond reproach.

If you are in the market for a modern solid wood semi, this Benedetto GA35 is a guitar that is worth considering.

If you'd like to find out more about this item, just call or e-mail me. It would be my pleasure to talk to you about it.