Jack Briggs is a talented luthier based in the area of Raleigh, North Carolina.  Some of you who are reading this will likely recall the in-depth spotlight profile of his work which I published on the Steelbender site from years ago.  Others may be hearing of him for the first time here.  Either way, I highly recommend that you visit briggsguitars.com for more information on the array of handmade models he offers.

For roughly the past 16 years, I’ve played more notes on my Briggs instruments than any other electric guitar.  I can’t say it was planned as such when I first met with Jack all those years ago to discuss the acquisition of an Avatar Deluxe. I  still own and use it regularly (along with an Artisan version of the Avatar Special and an Avatar). The reliability and inspiration they’ve brought to my studio and live performance endeavors have been very enjoyable!  From the “pretty-top” guitars available with exotic tone woods to less-ornate models, they are first and foremost tools of a musicians trade…meant to be played confidently and worthy of workhorse status.  After all, Jack is a talented player and understands what is required for making great-sounding and durable guitars that are equally at home on a stage or when the studio recording light is on.    

Like countless other guitarists of my generation, I grew up playing many iconic models from companies such as Fender and Gibson among others.  I have also used a wide array of more esoteric and non-traditional guitars on my musical journey.  My Briggs instruments comfortably fit right in the lineup and in many cases have supplanted my need for the “old faithfuls”.  Actually, enough time has passed where I should probably refer to all three of my Briggs as old faithfuls!

There are many excellent luthiers to choose from these days who are informed by diverse points-of-view regarding the design and production of stringed instruments.  As a one-man operation, Briggs certainly falls into the “boutique” category of guitar makers.  He strives to create guitars which offer a level of refinement, uniqueness and customization generally not found in mass-production offerings.

Jack called me recently and said he would be making a trip to my neck of the woods (guitar pun not intended) and wanted to know if I would like to take a look at a new forthcoming model he’s been working on for awhile.  Aside from catching up with an old friend, the opportunity to have a firsthand look at his newest design didn’t require much arm-twisting!

We convened in my studio, where Jack brought along two of his creations:  a Pandora, which is a semi-hollow design one might view as a take on a smaller Gibson ES-style guitar and the new Minerva starring as Briggs’ first archtop model.  I’ve heard Jack speak at different points in the past about his desire to develop an archtop instrument.  Equally at home as an acoustic archtop or as an electric guitar with the onboard pickup, the Minerva struck me as a compelling and exquisite representation of Jack’s vision and craftsmanship. 

From the easy-playing neck to the resonant body, the Minerva feels alive and exudes what I’ve heard termed as “airiness” regarding the note quality.  (Describing sounds in written language can be a futile exercise, as many guitarists probably know.  We surely use some funny adjectives on occasion when discussing such things.)   I am convinced that Jack Briggs is building the best guitars he ever has these days and continues to elevate his skills to even more impressive levels.

To be clear, I am not compensated for these viewpoints nor have I been asked to issue these opinions.  Given that I am asked on occasion about the kinds of guitars I use, it seems natural to give a nod to Briggs and share my enthusiasm for his latest work.

Here are a couple of videos featuring the Minerva.  My long-time friend Eddie Berman plays a few riffs in the first clip and then I am playing the Minerva in the second video. Having our contrasting styles on display should present a broader representation of the Minerva’s vibe.  Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy the clips!