Rock guitarist Billy Rowe turned his love of devices into an organization that makes hand-built electrics that seize the vibe, tone, and really feel of prized classic fashions. His newest is the Revenge Jr.

With its offset Firebird-meets-Telecaster physique form and light-weight cedar physique, the Revenge Jr is a stripped-down model of Rowe’s dual-humbucker Revenge, with a single custom-voiced/PAF-inspired Relic Bucker. Its 22 properly polished medium frets and rolled neck edges lend an instantly comfy really feel with easy play throughout the fretboard. It’s a sensation sometimes introduced by well-traveled classic items.

Aesthetically, the Revenge Jr has a placing aged/worn look; strategically positioned nicks and dings reveal glimpses of woodgrain whereas delicate checking provides to the aged aesthetic that appears pretty natural. {Hardware} is barely tarnished. However beneath it lies an instrument constructed with fashionable playability and, extra importantly, reliability utilizing top-notch parts with meticulous craftsmanship.

Plugged right into a high-gain boutique EL34 amp and a couple of×12 cupboard, the Revenge Jr spit out a uncooked, centered aggression that minimize with authority. The resonant physique translated each picked observe and strum into woody maintain. Chords have been full of life, with a punchy growl that was excellent for rhythm work. The Relic Bucker’s Alnico V magnets assist ship heat and readability with simply sufficient kick for tight, percussive palm mutes. Full-on soiled tones cleaned up properly with the guitar turned down, revealing open, edge-of-breakup tones all the way in which right down to squeaky clear. Single Quantity and Tone controls supply stunning versatility.

Whether or not you’re laying down funky grooves or scorching leads, the Revenge Jr gives a no-frills expertise with the look, really feel, and vibe of a classic guitar. It’s all about unadulterated rock-and-roll tone.

This text initially appeared in VG’s July 2024 concern. All copyrights are by the creator and Classic Guitar journal. Unauthorized replication or use is strictly prohibited.