First introduced in 1912, the Gibson L-4 was one of a number of Gibson arch tops that dominated the band stands and stages of early big bands and jazz bands, designed to cut through the brass sections and vocals of the pre-electric era of guitar playing. The L-4 went through a variety of aesthetic changes over the years, with this 1927 L-4 showcasing the earlier oval sound hole design and slimmer slanted headstock shape, with 1927 being the last full production year before moving to the round sound hole. Featuring a carved Spruce top with Mahogany back and sides, the L-4 produces a mellow, balanced sound with plenty of volume and a full bass response. As with other early Gibson arch tops it has a great midrange punch that cuts through beautifully, making it easy to see how these guitars would have worked in a band situation. The mellow, woody tone also works exceptionally well for blues playing, with the L-4 forming the basis for other 'L' series flat top acoustics being used by Delta Blues players like Robert Johnson throughout the 1930s. Other features include 'The Gibson' script headstock logo, the checkered outer sound hole ring, and the original trapeze tail piece and open gear tuners.
This guitar is in very good condition for a near 100 year old instrument, with no major structural repairs and the kind of play wear and patina you would expect to see from a guitar of this age. There has been some work performed over the years to ensure it continue to play as it should, with a previous neck reset having been carried out. There has also been a new bridge fitted, allowing it to be amplified with the jack input attached to the trapeze tailpiece.
This guitar has been given a full service & appraisal by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty.
