Alex Lifeson, the legendary guitarist of RUSH, has joined forces with Epiphone to bring back his iconic 1976 ES-355 in Alpine White. This reissue is a testament to Lifeson's enduring love for the guitar, which he has played since the late 1970s and continued to use throughout his career. The ES-355, with its elegant and powerful sound, has become a symbol of Lifeson's unique style and has been a key instrument in RUSH's musical journey.
What makes this reissue particularly special is the attention to detail and the effort to capture the original spirit of the guitar. Epiphone has meticulously crafted the five-ply semi-hollow body, using layers of maple and poplar, with multi-ply binding on the top and back. This construction not only delivers the visual refinement expected of an ES-355 but also enhances sustain and reduces unwanted feedback, allowing for the expressive sound that ES models are known for.
One of the standout features of this reissue is the three-piece maple neck, which mirrors the construction of the original 70s-era instrument. The Slim C neck profile provides a fast and effortless playing experience, while the ebony fretboard adds clarity and a luxurious feel. The fretboard is adorned with mother-of-pearl large block inlays and 22 medium jumbo frets, ensuring a smooth and precise playing experience.
The headstock, inspired by Gibson's design, features a Gibson-style 'open book' design with premium die-cast tuners and a Graph Tech nut for reliable tuning stability. The multi-ply binding frames the headstock, and the truss rod cover is engraved with Alex Lifeson's name, adding a personal touch. The gold-finished hardware, including a harmonica-style Tune-O-Matic bridge and gold pickup covers, gives the guitar an upscale appearance.
The heart of the guitar lies in its electronics. It is equipped with a pair of USA-made Gibson T-Type humbucker pickups, which are wired to individual volume and tone controls using CTS potentiometers and Mallory capacitors. A Switchcraft three-way toggle switch allows for pickup selection, and a mono Varitone switch expands the tonal palette. A dedicated mini toggle enables the Varitone circuit to be engaged or bypassed as desired, providing a versatile range of sounds.
The Alex Lifeson 1976 ES-355 reissue is available for purchase through Epiphone and Reverb, retailing for $1,499. This guitar is not just a replica but a celebration of Lifeson's musical legacy and a testament to the enduring appeal of the ES-355. As RUSH continues to tour with their 'Fifty Something' reunion, this reissue is a perfect companion for fans and musicians alike, offering a chance to experience the magic of Lifeson's guitar playing.
In my opinion, this reissue is a must-have for any guitarist who appreciates the craftsmanship and sound of the ES-355. It is a testament to the timeless appeal of this instrument and a reminder of the impact Alex Lifeson has had on the world of music. The attention to detail and the effort to capture the original spirit make it a truly special guitar, one that will inspire and delight players for years to come.
