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The Fretboard Journal Guitar Podcast

Each week, the Fretboard Journal interviews some of our favorite musicians, instrument builders and historians.
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The Fretboard Journal Guitar Podcast
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Now displaying: Page 1
Nov 22, 2024

In what has become a November tradition, Guru Singh - the Fretboard Journal's favorite guitar-loving yogi and spiritual teacher - returns to the podcast.

This time around, we hear more about his early days growing up in Seattle, including the now-customized Gibson J-45 that he purchased in the '50s, used throughout the '60s as a Reprise Records artist, and still plays today. We talk about his new album, en CHANT ed (out now on all the streaming platforms), working with Seal, and how he defines mantra music. 

https://gurusingh.com

en CHANT ed on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/3iuFFu5euoPjz7Fxlf9xlQ

en CHANT ed on Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/en-chant-ed/1776796072

We also get advice on how to stay positive during stressful times (including the recent election), the importance of inclusion, the history of yoga in the U.S. and so much more. 

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal: http://fretboardjournal.com/subscribe

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans, and it is loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Our next Fretboard Summit takes place August 21-23, 2025 at Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music. Register today: https://www.oldtownschool.org/concerts/2025/08-21-2025-fretboard-summit-2025/

This week's show is sponsored by: Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Collings: Check out their new Hill Country series of guitars: https://collingsguitars.com/hill-country-series/

StewMac: Check out this affordable S-style guitar kit: https://stewmac.sjv.io/XmYmbo

Thanks, as always, for tuning in. 

Nov 13, 2024

On this week's Fretboard Journal Podcast, we're sharing an inspiring chat on guitarmaking and storytelling with UK-based luthier Daisy Tempest.

In just a few years, Daisy's YouTube channel - where she documents the craft (and toil) behind her handcrafted instruments - has exploded in popularity. (A recent video documenting the $36,000 acoustic guitar she built currently has over 300,000 views and counting.)

Still in the early stages of her guitar career, she's already expanded the audience for high-end acoustics with her fresh take on content creation and some truly gorgeous instruments. It will be fascinating to see what's next.

During our talk, we discuss her background, her decision to become a luthier, her unique build videos (which she currently films and edits entirely on her own...while simultaneously making the guitars), where she finds inspiration, the guitar market today, and so much more. 

https://www.tempestguitars.com 

Bonus: Watch the entire interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4IB2k7Gs5Q4

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal: http://fretboardjournal.com/subscribe

Our next Fretboard Summit takes place August 21-23, 2025 at Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music. Register today: https://www.oldtownschool.org/concerts/2025/08-21-2025-fretboard-summit-2025/

This week's show is sponsored by: Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Collings: Check out their new Hill Country series of guitars: https://collingsguitars.com/hill-country-series/

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Nov 8, 2024

Mandolin virtuoso Sierra Hull can do it all: She juggles time with her own band, touring with Bela Fleck, and performing with the likes of Cory Wong, Brad Paisley, Billy Strings, and the Allman Betts Band. 

On this week's podcast, we discuss a pair of eclectic covers she's just shared: Tears for Fears' "Mad World" and the Grateful Dead's "Black Muddy River" and hear all about them. We also talk about life on the road, electric octave mandolins(!), being a free agent, the art of changing mandolin strings, plans for the future, and so much more.

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal: http://fretboardjournal.com/subscribe

Our next Fretboard Summit takes place August 21-23, 2025 at Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music. Register today: https://www.oldtownschool.org/concerts/2025/08-21-2025-fretboard-summit-2025/

This week's show is sponsored by: Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Collings: Check out their new Hill Country series of guitars: https://collingsguitars.com/hill-country-series/

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Oct 31, 2024

This week, we're joined by Trevor Boone of Seattle's Emerald City Guitars. 

This Seattle guitar store is like no other, where you'll often find multiple Dumble amplifiers, original 'Bursts and impossibly rare Fenders alongside players' grade guitars and amps.
 
They've also taken a unique approach to marketing and storytelling by hiring a full-time videographer to document some of the great tales behind their inventory, having an RV gassed up and ready to go, and self-producing a reality show about their latest vintage guitar finds on YouTube. 
 
During our chat, we talk about the store's big bet on content creation, how Trevor brokers these staggeringly expensive deals, how to move a six-figure Dumble across the country (thanks for the tip, John Mayer), and so much more.
 
Visit Emerald City Guitars: https://emeraldcityguitars.com
Follow their YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/emeraldcityguitars
ECG at the 2024 Fretboard Summit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYXhFarrQiU&t=1170s

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal: http://fretboardjournal.com/subscribe

Our next Fretboard Summit takes place August 21-23, 2025 at Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music. Register today: https://www.oldtownschool.org/concerts/2025/08-21-2025-fretboard-summit-2025/

This week's show is sponsored by: Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Collings: Check out their new Hill Country series of guitars: https://collingsguitars.com/hill-country-series/

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Oct 29, 2024

This week, we're launching a new monthly series called Meet the Contributors. It's where you can meet some of the many creative people who help make this magazine, our podcasts and our events possible. We'll profile the writers, photographers, filmmakers and creatives who make the FJ special...and hear about what other projects they're working on.

This month, we're talking to Vancouver-based editor and writer Brian Lynch. Over the years, he's profiled Paul Pigat and builder Warren Murfitt for us. Of course, when he's not writing or editing, he's playing guitar. Brian just released a wild new record where he interprets the soundtrack music of Bernard Herrmann. He tells us all about it, how he got started as a writer/editor, and more.

Check out Lynch's new album here: https://blynch1.bandcamp.com/album/circle-spiral

We'll be sharing future Meet the Contributors installments over on our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/fretboard_journal

 

Oct 22, 2024

Bluegrass musician Woody Platt joins us this week to talk about his new solo album, 'Far Away With You' (Compass Records).

https://www.woodyplatt.com/music

Woody is best known as the former frontman and cofounder of Steep Canyon Rangers. In 2022, after countless shows with SCR and backing Steve Martin on-stage, Platt stepped down from the band to be closer to home. These days, he's busier than ever: In addition to playing, he's dabbled in real estate, worked as a fly fish guide, and spearheaded several music camps (including Bryan Sutton's Blue Ridge Guitar Camp).

For this week's podcast, we talk about Woody's home state of NC in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, his return to making bluegrass, his ever-growing music camp empire, plus a lot more.

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal: http://fretboardjournal.com/subscribe

Our next Fretboard Summit takes place August 21-23, 2025 at Chicago’s Old Town School of Folk Music. For a limited time, you can register now with discounted early-bird pricing: https://www.oldtownschool.org/concerts/2025/08-21-2025-fretboard-summit-2025/

This week's show is sponsored by: Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Collings: Check out their new Hill Country series of guitars: https://collingsguitars.com/hill-country-series/

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Oct 13, 2024

Charleston, South Carolina's Daniel Patrick joins us this week for a lively talk about mandolins, being a gigging musician, and talking to your heroes.

Daniel is the host of the popular Mandolins & Beer Podcast. He just released a great new album called 'Around the Clock' where he does covers with an all-star array of fellow mandolin players (Sam Bush, Joe K. Walsh, Tim O’Brien, Ronnie McCoury, and others). 

https://danielpatrickmusic.bandcamp.com/album/around-the-clock

During our chat, we hear about the unique live music scene of Charleston; why Daniel launched the podcast, his new album and so much more. 

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal: 

http://fretboardjournal.com/subscribe

Our next Fretboard Summit takes place August 21-23, 2025 at Chicago’s Old Town School of Folk Music. For a limited time, you can register now with discounted early-bird pricing: https://www.oldtownschool.org/concerts/2025/08-21-2025-fretboard-summit-2025/

This week's show is sponsored by: Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Collings: Check out their new Hill Country series of guitars: https://collingsguitars.com/hill-country-series/

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Oct 5, 2024

On this week's podcast, we're sharing our Q&A session with Martin CEO Thomas Ripsam live from the 2024 Fretboard Summit.

During our chat, Thomas and FJ publisher Jason Verlinde discuss Martin's plans for the future, the changing demographics of guitar consumers, intellectual property, sales channels, and much more. 

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal: 

http://fretboardjournal.com/subscribe

Our next Fretboard Summit takes place August 21-23, 2025 at Chicago’s Old Town School of Folk Music. For a limited time, you can register now with discounted early-bird pricing: https://www.oldtownschool.org/concerts/2025/08-21-2025-fretboard-summit-2025/

This week's show is sponsored by: Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Sep 27, 2024

What makes a great luthier tick? On this week's Fretboard Journal Podcast, we attempt to find out. 

Recorded live at the 2024 Fretboard Summit, guitar repair gurus Evan Gluck, Tyler Geske, Trevor Healy, Mark Stutman, TJ Thompson, and Joe Glaser talk candidly about the personality traits that drove them to working on guitars. We hear about their attention to detail, the perils of imposter syndrome, and why time management is paramount. 
 
It's an unfiltered chat with six of the most detail-oriented and thoughtful individuals in the guitar space. 

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal: 

http://fretboardjournal.com/subscribe

Our next Fretboard Summit takes place August 21-23, 2025 at Chicago’s Old Town School of Folk Music. For a limited time, you can register now with discounted early-bird pricing: https://www.oldtownschool.org/concerts/2025/08-21-2025-fretboard-summit-2025/

This week's show is sponsored by: Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Sep 20, 2024

On this week’s podcast, we talk to Alister Atkin, founder of Atkin Guitars.

Alister and his growing team are building vintage-inspired flattop acoustics in Canterbury, England. During our chat, we talk about the company’s history, its ongoing growth, the aged finish that Atkin instruments are known for, how they've penetrated the US market, and even the company’s choice to start making electric instruments.

We think you’ll love getting to know Alister and his story.

https://atkinguitars.com

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal: 

http://fretboardjournal.com/subscribe

Our next Fretboard Summit takes place August 21-23, 2025 at Chicago’s Old Town School of Folk Music. For a limited time, you can register now with discounted early-bird pricing: https://www.oldtownschool.org/concerts/2025/08-21-2025-fretboard-summit-2025/

This week's show is sponsored by: Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Sep 12, 2024

Jayne Henderson and Sarah Weinberg join us to talk about Women in Lutherie, an online community and mentorship program connecting female instrument makers from around the world. 

Jayne is based in Asheville, North Carolina and is a second-generation guitarmaker. (Her father, Wayne Henderson, is a legendary builder of acoustic guitars and mandolins.)

Sarah is based in Tel Aviv, where she's the only female luthier in the entire city. 

Through Women in Lutherie, Sarah was able to meet Jayne and shadow her for two weeks in North Carolina, studying her build process. They attended our 2024 Fretboard Summit together and even started building a pair of ukuleles back at Jayne's shop. 

On this week's show, we hear all about the fellowship, what they learned from each other over the last two weeks, what being a luthier in Tel Aviv is like, and - most importantly - how we can inspire more women to take up guitarmaking. 

EJ Henderson Guitars & Ukuleles: 
https://www.ejhendersonguitars.com
https://www.instagram.com/ejhendersonguitars/

Sarah Weinberg: 
https://www.instagram.com/what_is_sarah_doing/

Women in Lutherie: 
https://www.womeninlutherie.org

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal: 

http://fretboardjournal.com/subscribe

Our next Fretboard Summit takes place August 21-23, 2025 at Chicago’s Old Town School of Folk Music. For a limited time, you can register now with discounted early-bird pricing: https://www.oldtownschool.org/concerts/2025/08-21-2025-fretboard-summit-2025/

This week's show is sponsored by: Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Aug 30, 2024

This week, we’re sharing one of the highlights from our 2024 Fretboard Summit: Joe Henry in conversation with Blake Mills.

During their chat, these two acclaimed producers and singer-songwriters discuss working with legacy artists (Blake has famously worked with Joni Mitchell; while Joe has worked with everyone from Joan Baez to Solomon Burke), the importance of a beginner’s mindset in the studio, the magic of Jim Keltner, honoring the song, and so much more.

It was one of many unforgettable Fretboard Summit 2024 sessions. We hope you love it.

Recorded August 24, 2024.

https://www.blakemillsonline.com

https://www.joehenrylovesyoumadly.com/

We’ll be sharing even more podcasts and videos from our Summit throughout the year. Thanks to all who attended.

Our next Fretboard Summit takes place August 21-23, 2025 at Chicago’s Old Town School of Folk Music. For a limited time, you can register now with discounted early-bird pricing: https://www.oldtownschool.org/concerts/2025/08-21-2025-fretboard-summit-2025/

This week's show is sponsored by:Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Aug 22, 2024

Detroit-based guitarist Nick Shillace joins us this week to talk about discovering the music of John Fahey, running a successful music school, and his excellent new album, A Rich Boy’s Measured Blues.

Nick is one of dozens of musicians and luthiers attending our 2024 Fretboard Summit, taking place August 23-25, 2024 at Chicago’s Old Town School of Folk Music. https://fretboardsummit.org

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal print edition and reserve your copy of Fretboard Journal 54:
https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/products/fretboard-journal-annual-subscription

This week's show is sponsored by:
StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/R5jvRR (Affiliate link)

Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Collings Guitars: https://www.collingsguitars.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Aug 8, 2024

Two of Nashville’s finest guitarists – Tom Bukovac and Guthrie Trapp – join us this week to talk about their new album, IN STEREO. We chat about what brought them to Nashville way back when, the making of the album, the gear they used on it, tube amps, and so much more.

Order IN STEREO: https://bakedalaskarecords.com

Our 2024 Fretboard Summit takes place August 23-25, 2024 at Chicago's Old Town School. This year's Summit features 80 luthiers and exhibitors. Performers include Adam Levy, Colin Hay, Blake Mills, Joel Paterson, Jake Eddy, Jordan Tice, Valerie June, and Joe Henry. Register to attend this unforgettable guitar weekend: https://fretboardsummit.org

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal print edition and reserve your copy of Fretboard Journal 54:
https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/products/fretboard-journal-annual-subscription

This week's show is sponsored by:
StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/R5jvRR (Affiliate link)

Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Collings Guitars: https://www.collingsguitars.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

 

Jul 30, 2024

Toronto's William "Grit" Laskin has been building acoustic instruments since 1971.

Best known as one of the world's foremost inlay artists, Grit painstakingly crafts wildly ornate fingerboard and headstock creations that serve as one-of-a-kind tributes to his clients and their passions.

When he's not building, Grit has also run a record label, performed around North America as a folk artist, and even invented an engraving filler used by fellow luthiers worldwide. In 2012, he was named to the Order Of Canada (C.M.)., Canada’s highest civilian honor. 

As if that weren't enough, Grit has just penned a novel. 'The Stradivari Formula' is a thriller filled with intrigue, mystery and even a guitar-related plot. On this week's Fretboard Journal Podcast, we hear all about it, the research that went into it, and more.  

Order the Stradivari Formula on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3A0tjNv

Follow Grit: https://williamlaskin.com/

The Fretboard Journal's Fretboard Summit takes place August 23-25, 2024 at Chicago's Old Town School. This year's Summit features 80 luthiers and exhibitors, including Collings, Martin, Jason Kostal, Frank Bros., Michael Greenfield, and others. Performers include Colin Hay, Blake Mills, and Joe Henry. Register to attend this unforgettable guitar weekend: https://fretboardsummit.org

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal print edition and reserve your copy of Fretboard Journal 54:
https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/products/fretboard-journal-annual-subscription

This week's show is sponsored by:
StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/R5jvRR (Affiliate link)

Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Jul 22, 2024

In our 54th issue, Eric Pooley shares the story of Maya de Vitry going solo after her lengthy stint as one third of the Americana band The Stray Birds. It’s a poignant interview about starting from scratch, being vulnerable and taking chances.

On this week’s podcast, we hear even more about Maya’s journey with her collaborator Anthony da Costa. Maya’s new album, The Only Moment, is out now and we get the whole tale of how it developed and was recorded.

https://www.mayadevitry.com

The Fretboard Journal's Fretboard Summit takes place August 23-25, 2024 in Chicago. Register to attend this one-of-a-kind guitar camp: https://fretboardsummit.org

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal print edition and reserve your copy of Fretboard Journal 54:
https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/products/fretboard-journal-annual-subscription

This week's show is sponsored by:
StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/R5jvRR (Affiliate link)

Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Jul 5, 2024

Today we share an hour-long interview with one of the true greats of guitar-making, John Monteleone.

Collectors and musicians around the world have sought out John's archtop creations, resulting in six-figure price tags, a quartet of guitars at the Met (the Four Seasons), and even a song penned by Mark Knopfler (simply titled, "Monteleone"). He's also the subject of a full-length documentary, The Chisels Are Calling. 

As if that isn't enough, nearly 50 of his instruments from throughout his career have been amassed for a very special exhibit at the Long Island Museum entitled "Musical Masterworks: John Monteleone’s Guitars and Other Instruments." The exhibit runs through October 13th, 2024.

 https://longislandmuseum.org/exhibition/musical-masterworks-john-monteleones-guitars-and-other-instruments/

From August 1-3, 2024, John also is hosting his own Art of the Guitar Festival in Stony Brook (just a mile away from the aforementioned museum). https://www.thejazzloft.org/monteleone

During our chat, we talk about his early days in lutherie, building instruments and doing repairs for Mandolin Brothers. We chat about the influence of Jimmy D'Aquisto, what inspires him today, his workshop, new models on the horizon, and more. 

The Fretboard Journal is proud to announce that we're throwing a guitar festival. Read our 'First Timer's Guide to the Fretboard Summit' to learn all about it: https://www.fretboardjournal.com/columns/a-first-timers-guide-to-the-fretboard-summit


Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal print edition and reserve your copy of Fretboard Journal 54:
https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/products/fretboard-journal-annual-subscription

This week's show is sponsored by:
StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/R5jvRR (Affiliate link)

Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com
(Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Jun 27, 2024

Meet Scott Tsai, founder of Philadelphia's Queens Vintage Guitars.

Queens Vintage Guitars may just be the newest brick & mortar vintage guitar store in the country. On today's podcast, owner Scott Tsai tells us about its inception, its community focus, and so much more. 

https://queensvintageguitars.com

Scott's story is fascinating: His love for guitar started with a Yamaha from Costco. He became hooked on the music of Tommy Emmanuel, landed a job at NYC's Retrofret (thanks to sheer tenacity), and gradually amassed a collection of rare Epiphone archtops from the 1930s. He gives us a mini history lesson on Epiphones and explains what makes their archtops different from their Gibson counterparts. 

Plus: Scott's short-lived stint as a paparazzi photographer!

Meet Scott and close to 100 former FJ subjects, podcast guests, luthiers and brands at this year's Fretboard Summit in Chicago. Read our 'First Timer's Guide to the Fretboard Summit' to learn about it: https://www.fretboardjournal.com/columns/a-first-timers-guide-to-the-fretboard-summit/

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal print edition and reserve your copy of Fretboard Journal 54:

https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/products/fretboard-journal-annual-subscription

This week's show is sponsored by:
StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/R5jvRR (Affiliate link)

Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com (Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com (Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

 

Jun 25, 2024

We just premiered Mikkel Ploug's beautiful arrangement of Bach's Art of the Fugue for guitar on our YouTube channel. Today, we hear all about it. 

Ploug talks to us about how he turned to a Gibson ES-330 and an Estey-era Magnatone M-14 for this recording, his arrangement process on the Bach piece, and so much more. We talk gear, European jazz, and the experience of commissioning a guitar-themed piece from composer Bent Sørensen. 

Watch Ploug play the Art of the Fugue here: https://youtu.be/5Sl1mQB9HR4

Follow Mikkel here: https://www.instagram.com/plougmikkel/

https://www.mikkelploug.com

We're throwing a guitar festival this August in Chicago. Read 'A First Timer's Guide to the Fretboard Summit':  https://www.fretboardjournal.com/columns/a-first-timers-guide-to-the-fretboard-summit/

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal print edition and reserve your copy of Fretboard Journal 54:

https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/products/fretboard-journal-annual-subscription


This week's show is sponsored by:
StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/R5jvRR (Affiliate link)

Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com (Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com


Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com (Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

 

Jun 20, 2024

The Decemberists' Colin Meloy joins us this week to talk about the band's new, long-awaited album, 'As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again.'

Longtime readers of the magazine will remember Colin gracing the cover of our 45th issue. This time around, we chat about why there was a six-year break Decemberists albums, the tedious side of touring, the joys of writing, Nic Jones and British folk and more. 

https://www.decemberists.com/

We're throwing a guitar festival this August in Chicago. Read 'A First Timer's Guide to the Fretboard Summit': https://www.fretboardjournal.com/columns/a-first-timers-guide-to-the-fretboard-summit/

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal print edition and reserve your copy of Fretboard Journal 54:

https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/products/fretboard-journal-annual-subscription


This week's show is sponsored by:
StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/R5jvRR (Affiliate link)

Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com (Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com


Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com (Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

 

Jun 8, 2024

Bluegrass banjo legend Tony Trischka joins us this week to discuss the making of his new album, 'Earl Jam.' He also gives us a mini-masterclass into the world of Earl Scruggs.

The story behind 'Earl Jam' is truly remarkable: Upon receiving a USB drive full of never-before-released Earl Scruggs home recordings from the '80s and '90s, Trischka decided to transcribe his favorite moments and solos, note-for-note. His playing of these transcriptions became the foundation for the album, which also features guest spots by Billy Strings, Molly Tuttle, Brittany Haas, Stuart Duncan and others. It's like hearing a completely new Earl Scruggs record in 2024.

Just as memorable as the album are some Trischka's stories about Scruggs and his influence. Somehow, King Curtis Ravi Shankar, Petticoat Junction, Steve Martin, and KFC all get mentioned...and a lot more!  

https://www.tonytrischka.com/earl-jam

A First Timer's Guide to the Fretboard Summit: https://www.fretboardjournal.com/columns/a-first-timers-guide-to-the-fretboard-summit/

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal print edition and reserve your copy of Fretboard Journal 54:  https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/products/fretboard-journal-annual-subscription

This week's show is sponsored by:
StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/R5jvRR (Affiliate link)

Izotope: https://www.izotope.com (Use the code FRET10 to save 10%)

Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com (Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com (Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Jun 1, 2024

Meet Sofia Wolfson, a Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter, writer, and Fretboard Journal contributor who just released an incredible album called 'Imposing on a Hometown.' This project features a bunch of former Fretboard Journal subjects and contributors, including Meg Duffy of Hand Habits, Mason Stoops, and Harrison Whitford. Mostly though, it's a collection of great songs by an incredibly talented guitar fanatic. 

During our chat, we talk about growing up in LA (and the unique venues that helped shape Sofia's music community), the beauty of the Gibson J-45, working at LA's famed Old Style Guitar Shop (where Reuben Cox famously makes rubber bridge guitar mods and started a mini-movement), the making of 'Imposing,' the influence of Margaret Glaspy and so much more. We also talk about Sofia's soon-to-be-published interview with Big Thief's Adrianne Lenker in the Fretboard Journal. 

http://www.sofiawolfson.com/

https://sofiawolfson.bandcamp.com/album/imposing-on-a-hometown

Give 'Imposing on a Hometown' a listen and then sit back and hear the story behind it here. It's a good one.

Fretboard Summit 2024 Registration: 
https://fretboardsummit.org

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal print edition and reserve your copy of Fretboard Journal 54:  https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/products/fretboard-journal-annual-subscription

This week's show is sponsored by:
StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/R5jvRR (Affiliate link)

Izotope: https://www.izotope.com (Use the code FRET10 to save 10%)

Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com (Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com (Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

May 23, 2024

Guitarist Ethan Sherman returns to the Fretboard Journal Podcast to talk about his new acoustic album, 'Passages.' This contemporary bluegrass-inspired record features Ethan alongside Wes Corbett (banjo), Rob Ickes (Dobro), Thomas Cassell (mandolin), Avery Merritt (fiddle) and Ethan Jodziewicz (bass). 

During our chat, Ethan explains why banjo recordings like Bela Fleck's 'Drive' were the unlikely inspiration to the album and its arrangements; talks to us about the gear that he used; gives us a follow-up on his 'String Theories' project with Adam Levy; and shares some insights from touring with Michael Bublé. 

Check out Passages here:
https://ethansherman.bandcamp.com/album/passages

Fretboard Summit 2024 Registration: 
https://fretboardsummit.org

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal print edition and reserve your copy of Fretboard Journal 54:  https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/products/fretboard-journal-annual-subscription

This week's show is sponsored by:
StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/R5jvRR (Affiliate link)

Collings Guitars: https://www.collingsguitars.com
(Look at their pau ferro offerings: https://www.instagram.com/p/C6_kzwmroYI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==)

Izotope: https://www.izotope.com (Use the code FRET10 to save 10%)

Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com (Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)

Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com (Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

May 8, 2024

When guitarist Dr. Molly Miller isn't teaching music at USC, she's touring the world with Jason Mraz or recording with her own Molly Miller Trio. Or, as we learn today, she might be over at the tennis courts. 

On this week's Fretboard Journal Podcast, Miller walks us through a week in her life, talks about the gear she uses, and hints at hosting a tennis tournament during the 2024 Fretboard Summit in Chicago.

It's a fun chat with one of the guitar world's most dynamic performers. 

Molly's trio has a new album out called 'The Ballad of Hotspur.' We can't recommend it enough.

https://www.mollymillermusic.com

https://www.instagram.com/moodymill/

Fretboard Summit 2024 Registration: 
https://fretboardsummit.org

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal print edition and reserve your copy of Fretboard Journal 54:  https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/products/fretboard-journal-annual-subscription

This week's show is sponsored by:
StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/R5jvRR (Affiliate link)
Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com
Izotope: https://www.izotope.com (Use the code FRET10 to save 10%)
Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com (Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)
Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com (Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

Apr 26, 2024

On this week's show, we have a candid chat with Seattle indie rock musician-turned-podcaster (Roderick on the Line, Omnibus) John Roderick.

The Long Winters frontman was an early Fretboard Journal subject and guest on our podcast. This time around, we talk about John's break from music-making, the new songs he's been writing, the perils of pedal collecting and so much more.

We also reminisce about the PNW indie rock community of the late '90s when John often shared a bill with Death Cab for Cutie, discuss the challenges of getting the band together when you're all in your 50s, and learn about the hacks that may (or may not) overcome writer's block.

We also talk gear. John is a gearhead and former employee of Emerald City Guitars. He has a unique perspective on guitars, amps, and pedal collecting and has been a friend of the Fretboard Journal since its inception. I think you'll love it.

Follow John here:
http://www.johnroderick.com/

Must-listen: John on Song Exploder talking about "The Commander Thinks Aloud":
https://songexploder.net/the-long-winters

John performing in our 2012 12 Days of Fretboard project: https://www.fretboardjournal.com/video/twelve-days-fretboard-john-roderick/

Fretboard Summit 2024 Registration: 
https://fretboardsummit.org

Subscribe to the Fretboard Journal print edition and reserve your copy of Fretboard Journal 54:  https://shop.fretboardjournal.com/products/fretboard-journal-annual-subscription

This week's show is sponsored by:
StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/R5jvRR (Affiliate link)
Mike & Mike's Guitar Bar: https://mmguitarbar.com
Izotope: https://www.izotope.com (Use the code FRET10 to save 10%)
Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com (Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)
Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com (Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).

Love the podcast and want to support it? We have a Patreon page just for Fretboard Journal fans and loaded with bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/Fretboard_Journal

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