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Los Angeles’ iconic Sound Factory installs custom mains with KRK and legendary Acoustician George Augspurger
Originally opened in the early 1960s as Moonglow Records, The Sound Factory name was coined by Producer David Hassinger, who purchased the studio in 1969. A little over a decade later, the studio was sold to Sunset Sound Recorders’ owners Paul and Tutti Camarata, who ran the facility until it was sold in 2017. After 60 years of serving the music industry, LA’s Sound Factory boasts a history of working with some of the world’s greatest artists. Among these are Marvin Gaye, the Jackson 5, and Linda Ronstadt in the 60s and 70s; Sheryl Crow and Red Hot Chili Peppers at the turn of the century; Doja Cat, SZA, and Mark Ronson, as well as artists currently working with Sound Factory’s own record label. In an effort to keep up with the changes in technology and musical styles, the studio’s current leadership sought to upgrade the space while still paying homage to its history. In doing so, they connected with George Augspurger to create new mains for the facility’s two recording studios. The legendary acoustician and speaker designer had previously designed aspects of the Sound Factory during its expansion in the 1970s, and his experience in the studio was a perfect complement to the upgrade. After designing the new custom mains, Augspurger worked in collaboration with Craig Hockenberry, Gibson Director of Product Development, Pro Audio, to have the speakers built. Augspurger’s expansive pro audio knowledge, coupled with Hockenberry’s expertise in designing and building Gibson’s KRK monitors, proved to be ideal for this unique project. “After they had run the studio for about a year, [the present owners] asked me what would be involved in designing custom monitors for Studio A, the original room,” says Augspurger. “The room itself was one that I had designed, but it [now] had standard commercial monitors in it. So, using the components of the so-called ‘Augspurger monitor,’ we created a design for the room. Then, more recently, they wanted to upgrade the monitors in Studio B. The same design was physically able to be accommodated [in both rooms,] so we went ahead and [designed] the retrofit in Studio B as well.” While the process was straightforward, designing, creating, and deploying Sound Factory’s new mains was a labor of love that evolved over three years. “The main thing [to consider] in designing a custom monitor is that you have the freedom to make the cabinet dimensions fit the space available,” adds Augspurger, with regards to the unique soffits from the original monitors. “I know how to design speaker cabinets, so that part was easy. The choice of components is done in cooperation with the owner, the people who will be using the speakers. This is the first installation I’ve done with KRK…and all I can tell you is there were absolutely no glitches, no problems. They delivered what I asked for.” For Gibson/KRK’s role in the project, Hockenberry and his team set to work building the monitors to Augspurger’s specifications. “We worked with George on the monitors from the beginning, which was a real pleasure,” says Hockenberry. “We had the designs worked out by the second call with him, and we built both pairs in our prototype shop here in Nashville. Once we had George’s seal of approval on everything, we coordinated with Sound Factory Studio Manager Cameell Hanna to get the speakers sent to their new home in Hollywood, where George helped oversee the final installation.” Like nearly all of Augspurger’s prior speaker designs, the custom pairs of KRK mains at Sound Factory feature a wooden, high-frequency horn. “The actual speaker components, such as the high-frequency drivers and woofers, are standard commercial products,” he explains. “The woofers are made by TAD, the professional products division of Pioneer, which I have used in most of my custom installations for the past 20 years. The high-frequency driver, which is comprised of beryllium, is made in the U.S. by Radian.” The connection between Augspurger and Gibson/KRK was not one of happenstance. Instead, it was the result of many conversations Hanna had with his friend and colleague Rae Vinton, who leads Entertainment Relations for Gibson LA. “I told Rae about the upgrade and working with George, and she immediately asked if we wanted to do something with KRK,” says Hanna. “We already collaborate a lot together, so I thought it would be perfect.” For Hockenberry, it was a symbiotic relationship that evolved into an incredible project. “Sound Factory is an amazing space that has produced innumerable legendary hits from countless icons; that, combined with George’s status in the industry, really solidified our decision to move forward with this project,” he says. “KRK represents premium sonic quality, and these custom mains emphasize the capabilities of our engineering team to create solutions that compete with other high-end manufacturers. We are humbled that KRK is now a part of the Sound Factory legacy and the many creative masterpieces that will be coming out of those rooms.” “The funny thing about this place, for better or worse, I’m still not sure which it is, is that everything here is completely custom, even the general ‘living’ spaces,” explains Hanna. “Every aspect of this place is unique, nothing is a standard size, including the speaker system, so it’s difficult when we want to change something. But we wanted to honor the custom nature of the facility with our upgrades, and working with George, Craig, Rae, and the entire Gibson/KRK team, we’ve been able to accomplish that.”
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Taycan Turbo GT sets a new lap record for electric cars at Interlagos
Felipe Nasr, three-time IMSA champion and three-time winner of the 24 Hours of Daytona, set a time of 1:42.1 minutes on the 4.3-kilometre Interlagos circuit on 5 February 2025. The new lap time not only shaved almost eight seconds off the record set by the Taycan Turbo S in 2022 (1:49.8 minutes) but was also just under a second inside an earlier outright production-car lap record set by the 911 Turbo S (1:43.087 minutes). With both high-speed and technical sections, as well as plenty of elevation change, the circuit in the Interlagos district of the Brazilian metropolis offers a number of challenges. "Coming to Interlagos and getting behind the wheel of the Taycan Turbo GT right after winning the 24 Hours of Daytona was an incredible experience. I expected the strong acceleration and brutal torque but, ultimately, it was the overall performance that really impressed me," says Porsche works driver Nasr. "On the uphill climb before 'Curva do Café', just before the main straight, I used Attack Mode and the car reached 272 km/h by the end of the corner. On the exit of 'Curva do Sol', I was already reaching more than 200 km/h coming onto the back straight. It's amazing how brutally the car accelerates and delivers its power," continues the Porsche Penske Motorsport team driver. "The steering of the Taycan Turbo GT was very precise in the slow corners and remained stable even under heavy braking. The balance, the grip – a real performance machine." "Our goal was to set a new record to show the strengths of the new Taycan model series – just in time for its debut on the Brazilian market," says Peter Vogel, CEO of Porsche Brazil. "The outstanding performance of the Taycan Turbo GT is truly impressive." Officially known as the Autodrome José Carlos Pace, Brazil's home of Formula 1 and the FIA Endurance Championship (WEC), the circuit is known globally for the successes of national hero Ayrton Senna in the races of the early 1990s. The Taycan Turbo GT has also proven its motorsport credentials as a Formula E safety car since May 2024, when it took over the role from the Taycan Turbo S. Driven by Bruno Correia (Portugal), it is the most powerful safety car in an FIA World Championship. There are always two Taycan Turbo GT safety cars at each Formula E race. One is equipped with the Weissach Package and the other one is without. Fitted with safety equipment and a high-tech communication system, they alternate between duties as the main car and as the backup vehicle. - Further Taycan records on other continents The lap record in São Paulo follows on from three other records for the Taycan Turbo GT, set by Porsche development driver Lars Kern on very different circuits around the globe. Most recently, in October 2024, he set the then fastest time of 2:11.28 minutes round the Shanghai International Circuit, the first lap record officially recognised by the circuit. In spring 2024, Kern made a successful visit to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in California. With a time of 1:27.87 minutes, he set a lap faster than any other achieved by a driver in a road-legal electric car. Shortly before that, a pre-production version of this model had achieved a new fastest time in class at the Nürburgring. Kern was also at the wheel on this occasion, lapping the Nordschleife in just 7:07.55 minutes. With this official lap time, he was a full 26 seconds faster than his previous record drive in August 2022 in a Taycan Turbo S Sport Sedan with Performance Package. - About the Taycan Turbo GT and Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach package Porsche has rounded off the top end of its lineup of all-electric sports sedans with the Taycan Turbo GT and the Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach package. A more powerful and more efficient pulse inverter with silicon carbide as the semiconductor material is used on the rear axle. Both cars achieve a limited-time peak power output of more than 1,100 PS. At the push of a button, Attack Mode provides a power increase of up to 120 kW for up to 10 seconds. The system has been optimised for use on track and is similar in function to that of the 99X racing cars that Porsche uses in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. The boost is indicated by a countdown timer in the instrument cluster and dynamically represented by animated rings on the speedometer. With intelligent lightweight construction measures, Porsche has reduced the weight of the Taycan Turbo GT by up to 75 kilograms compared to the Taycan Turbo S. A number of carbon-fibre components contribute to this saving. The Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach package is specially designed for the racetrack and dispenses with the rear bench seat in favour of an even greater power-to-weight ratio. Both models are equipped as standard with Porsche Active Ride suspension with GT-specific tuning. In dynamic driving situations, this suspension setup ensures an almost perfect connection to the road thanks to balanced distribution of the wheel loads.
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Ghost Hounds Announce New Album 'Almost Home' Due Out Worldwide March 21 on Gibson Records
Today, country roots-rock band Ghost Hounds is excited to announce their new studio record, Almost Home, which will be released everywhere on March 21 via Gibson Records. Pre-save Almost Home HERE. https://stem.ffm.to/almosthomealbum On their fifth studio album, Almost Home, the band grapples with the multifaceted concept of "home"-what it means to build a life, find emotional grounding, and navigate the complex terrain of love and loss. The result is their most intimate and dynamic work yet, filled with both scorching rock anthems and tender, soul-searching ballads. Out today, “House A Home” is the newest single to be shared from the new album and follows the releases of “You’ll Never Find Me,”--which has already reached the Top 20 at Country Radio CDX in only three weeks of release—and follows “She Runs Hot,” “You’ll Never Find Me (Strings Version),” and “Long Ride Home feat. Patty Griffin.” The band has also been releasing stunning and cinematic music videos, which have earned wide praise and support from acclaimed outlets such as CMT. WATCH “YOU’LL NEVER FIND ME (STRINGS VERSION)” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO To celebrate the announcement of their forthcoming album Almost Home, Ghost Hounds will be giving away one Epiphone electric guitar and one Epiphone acoustic guitar, hand-signed by the band. Music fans can enter the Ghost Hounds Epiphone giveaway HERE. https://ffm.to/almosthomegiveaway Winners will be chosen after March 20 at midnight ET and announced within 14 days; for all giveaway terms and conditions, visit HERE. https://ghosthoundsband.squarespace.com/contest-rules Almost Home comes at a pivotal moment for the band, who, after years of hard-earned success and touring with rock legends like The Rolling Stones, ZZ Top, Garth Brooks, and Guns N' Roses, have welcomed new members and evolved their sound. The band’s lineup includes vocalist SAVNT, guitarist Tyler Chiarelli (formerly of Florida Georgia Line), fiddler Kristin Weber (Lorde, Margo Price, Dolly Parton), guitarist and main lyricist Thomas Tull, bassist Bennett Miller, keyboardist Joe Munroe, and drummer Sydney Driver. Together, they have shaped Almost Home into a powerful reflection of both personal and collective growth. On Almost Home, Ghost Hounds have once again pushed the boundaries of their unique country roots-rock sound while staying true to the core of what has always made them unique—passion, storytelling, and musicianship. The album’s first single, “You’ll Never Find Me,” is a blistering anthem about a man post-breakup, declaring that he is irreplaceable. The track’s arena-ready energy serves as a precursor to the album’s complex emotional landscape. “House A Home,” another standout, reflects the central theme of the album—what transforms a house into a home. A deeply emotional moment on Almost Home comes in the form of the Patty Griffin cover, “Long Ride Home.” A meditation on grief, the song features Griffin herself on vocals alongside SAVNT, blending two distinct voices to convey the bittersweet reality of losing a loved one. It’s a song that captures the messy, complicated emotions of real-life loss. Another key track, “Before You Leave,” features vocals from Lainey Wilson and marks the emotional culmination of the couple’s relationship. It’s about looking at the empty spaces on the walls where memories once hung and even though they both know it’s the right decision to part ways, the love they shared still lingers in the home they made together. The album was largely written by Tull before the band came together in the studio to bring the tracks to life. As the band moves forward, their journey is one of evolution—both as musicians and as people. Almost Home is a powerful testament to the complexity of relationships, the meaning of home, and the enduring spirit of rock & roll. It’s a record that will resonate long after the final note fades.
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JUNKY CREAM Redefines Virtual KPOP Idols with Cutting-Edge AI Innovation
■ Next-Generation Virtual Artists Created by KPOP Industry Veterans JUNKY CREAM is revolutionizing the virtual idol industry. Founded by veteran KPOP producers with over 20 years of experience, the company brings together top-tier CG supervisors, choreographers, music video directors, and art directors to create next-generation virtual stars. Their mission is clear: "If great virtual artists don’t exist, we’ll create them ourselves." Unlike traditional 3D characters, JUNKY CREAM’s virtual idols are crafted with expert precision. Every detail—performance, choreography, styling, and even camera work—is meticulously designed by professionals with real-world KPOP stage experience. This commitment to artistry sets JUNKY CREAM apart, creating virtual idols with unmatched authenticity and presence. ■ A Game-Changing All-in-One Production Process JUNKY CREAM has developed an all-in-one production system that seamlessly integrates every aspect of virtual idol creation. From character design and motion capture to songwriting, choreography, and music video production, everything is handled in-house using proprietary technology. One of their standout projects is BRAZY, a virtual idol group, and particularly the solo debut of its member, Dante. His lyric video, produced entirely in an AI-powered cinematic style, has generated significant buzz in the AI-driven content market. This innovative approach gives JUNKY CREAM a competitive edge in the evolving world of virtual entertainment. ■ Breaking the Mold with Unique Visuals and AI-Powered Effects The virtual idol market is often criticized for repetitive designs and lack of originality. JUNKY CREAM challenges this by blending North American and Japanese influences, creating a fresh and distinctive style. Through proprietary animation effects and a streamlined production process, JUNKY CREAM has redefined efficiency. A team of just four members can complete a high-quality music video in just two to three months—significantly faster than the industry standard. ■ Merging AI with Human Creativity Unlike companies that rely solely on AI, JUNKY CREAM combines cutting-edge technology with deep artistic expertise. AI assists in generating design concepts, refining character models, composing beats, and developing choreography ideas. However, the creative vision remains firmly in the hands of experienced industry professionals. Collaboration is key to their process. From the initial beat production to the final visual execution, choreographers, composers, CG specialists, and art directors work together to perfect every detail. The company’s producer duo, Chrome & Glitch, has earned recognition from global subculture artists and trendsetters for their groundbreaking creative direction. ■ Leading the Future of AI-Powered Virtual Idols JUNKY CREAM actively integrates the latest AI technologies from the U.S. and China to push the boundaries of virtual idol production. Their fresh approach is reshaping the industry. On February 21, BRAZY’s Dante officially released his first solo album, PARADOX, on major online music platforms. His music video seamlessly blends artistic creativity with advanced AI technology, earning enthusiastic responses from global fans. As KPOP and AI innovation continue to merge, JUNKY CREAM is leading the way, setting a new standard for virtual idols and digital entertainment.
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Gibson Custom Announces the Eric Clapton 1958 Les Paul Custom
For over 130 years, Gibson has shaped sound across generations and genres of music, becoming one of the most relevant, played, and loved guitar brands around the world. Gibson Custom is proud to unveil its next global release in homage to two of the most legendary, successful, and respected guitarists of all time, Eric Clapton and Albert Lee. Introducing the Eric Clapton 1958 Les Paul Custom, a piece of music history that’s directly associated with two of the world’s foremost guitarists. The guitar comes with a second pickguard, hand-signed by both Eric Clapton and Albert Lee and presented in a collectible wooden display case. The Gibson Custom Eric Clapton 1958 Les Paul Custom is available now for early access via Guitar Center, the Gibson Garage Nashville and London, and on Gibson.com. It will be available worldwide at authorized, premium Gibson dealers starting on February 25. Performing with the Yardbirds, John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers, Cream, Blind Faith, Derek & The Dominos, Delaney & Bonnie, and as a solo artist, Eric Clapton has inspired countless players. Clapton has won 18 GRAMMY® Awards, received the Brit Award for “Outstanding Contribution to Music,” four Ivor Novello Awards from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors, including a Lifetime Achievement Award, and was awarded a CBE for services to music. He is the only three-time inductee to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, as a solo artist and as a member of the Yardbirds and Cream. He has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling musicians of all time. He is the co-founder and a patron of the Crossroads Centre, a substance abuse rehabilitation facility on Antigua that has helped countless people overcome substance abuse. Explore the Gibson Custom Eric Clapton 1958 Les Paul Custom HERE. https://www.gibson.com/en-US/p/Electric-Guitar/Eric-Clapton-1958-Les-Paul-Custom/Ebony During Cream’s first American tour, Eric purchased a three-pickup 1958 Les Paul Custom, serial number 8 6320, which he used on Disraeli Gears, multiple tours, including with Delaney & Bonnie, and on and off throughout the rest of the 1960s and 70s. In 1979, he gifted the guitar to fellow legendary guitarist Albert Lee, who continues to be inspired by it and uses it to this day. Now, Gibson Custom is proud to introduce the Eric Clapton 1958 Les Paul Custom, a loving tribute to Clapton's original Cream-era 1958 Les Paul Custom. This special limited run uses ultra-precise Murphy Lab aging techniques to aid in handcrafting a reproduction of this legendary guitar. Every detail has been thoughtfully crafted, from the exact playing wear to the sonic character. It features a hand-selected, ultra-lightweight, one-piece, all-mahogany body, a mahogany neck with an ebony fretboard with Custom mother-of-pearl block inlays and 22 historic medium jumbo frets, and the same neck profile as the original guitar. The hardware is aged gold, including the Grover® tuners, ABR-1 bridge, Stop Bar tailpiece, and pickup covers. The three pickups are unpotted Custombuckers, with the middle pickup mounted with the screws oriented towards the neck, just as they are on the original guitar. The volume and tone controls use CTS® 500k audio taper potentiometers that are hand-wired to paper-in-oil capacitors, while the Murphy Lab aging simulates the exact aging and wear patterns that Eric and Albert created. Watch/share the new video for the Gibson Custom Eric Clapton 1958 Les Paul Custom HERE. Only 150 of these exceptional guitars have been handcrafted by the expert luthiers of the Gibson Custom Shop and Murphy Lab in Nashville, Tennessee. The custom Duck Brothers-inspired case includes the guitar, along with a second pickguard, signed by both Eric Clapton and Albert Lee in a collectible wooden display case, a Certificate of Authenticity booklet with a photo by Chuck Stewart, a black leather Archive Series strap, and a Gibson Custom switch plate medallion. Here is your opportunity to own a piece of music history owned and played by two guitar icons.
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Gibson Partners with Sir Brian May, Announces Brian May SJ-200 12-String Guitar, Now Available Worldwide on Gibson.com
As it celebrates over 130 years of music history, Gibson, the iconic global instrument brand, is proud to announce it has partnered with Sir Brian May, one of the most influential musicians in history and co-founder of one of the most impactful bands of all time, Queen. Introducing the Brian May SJ-200 12-String acoustic guitar from Gibson Custom. Made in close collaboration and with significant design input from Sir Brian May, only 100 of these SJ-200 12-String models will be available worldwide in this extraordinary, limited run via Gibson.com, the Gibson Garage Nashville and London, and authorized Gibson dealers. “The idea for this guitar came when I needed a 12-String on tour, and the one I was accustomed to wasn’t performing right on stage. The guys at Gibson very kindly said, ‘We’ll make you something special that you can use on the tours.’ One of the things I asked for was for the octaves to be placed around the other way from where it is normally done, because I like to pick upwards and hear the top notes when I’m playing. I like to hear the high octave coming through as then I can play tunes on it. If you look at this guitar, the beauty of it, and the beauty of the sound, and look at the science in this guitar, look how much technology and craftsmanship has gone into this guitar. Gibson was able to put the universe on it in a figurative way and the planet Mercury is here, and that is a little nod to a friend of mine that is always with me.” - SIR BRIAN MAY “As a trailblazing sound pioneer, trendsetter, and one of the most influential musicians of all time, it’s an absolute privilege to be collaborating with Sir Brian May,” says Cesar Gueikian, CEO of Gibson. “Brian’s impact on music and culture is second to none and was a transformational influence on my personal music journey. We are deeply honored that Brian has trusted Gibson with this SJ-200 12-string guitar, and we are excited to finally bring it to music lovers around the world. Thank you, Brian.” Watch/share the new interview with Sir Brian May re the creation of his new Brian May SJ-200 12-String from Gibson Custom; the music is “Love of My Life” by Queen, watch HERE. Sir Brian May put aside his PhD studies to become the legendary lead guitarist of QUEEN. After decades of worldwide fame with his distinctive sound and celebrated guitar work, he finished his dissertation and received a doctorate in astrophysics in 2007. The Brian May SJ-200 12-String honors Sir Brian’s contribution to rock music and his deep passion for astronomy. Explore the new Brian May SJ-200 12-String from Gibson Custom: HERE. https://www.gibson.com/en-US/p/Acoustic-Guitar/Brian-May-SJ-200-12-String/Vintage-Sunburst The Gibson SJ-200 in 12-String form is a rare instrument, and this one is particularly special. It features premium woods, including a AAA rosewood back and sides, a AAA Sitka spruce top with a Vintage Sunburst finish and a 2-piece AAA maple neck with a Rounded profile, walnut stringer, and a rosewood fretboard with agoya shell 8-point star inlays. The headstock also features a stunning 8-point agoya shell star inlay, along with a Gibson logo in mother-of-pearl and gold Grover® Mini Rotomatic® tuning machines. The moustache™ bridge is solid rosewood with four 60s-style agoya inlays. The planetary-themed pickguard was designed by Sir Brian May and further reinforces the astronomy motif celebrating Sir Brian’s love of science. The strings are mounted in reverse order, with the thicker strings at the top, followed by the octave strings beneath, giving it a distinctive sound that’s unlike other Gibson 12-String acoustic models. Fishman® Matrix® electronics make this guitar stage and studio-ready from the moment you take it out of the included hardshell case. Only 100 of these exceptional Brian May SJ-200 12-String guitars have been handcrafted by the expert luthiers of the Gibson Custom Shop in Bozeman, Montana. It’s an instrument that is worthy of a guitarist who not only became a star but who continues to avidly study them. Last fall, Queen released the Queen I Collector’s Edition box set, which includes the group’s groundbreaking 1973 debut album, Queen, remixed, remastered and expanded in a 6CD+1LP box set. With 63 tracks and 43 brand new mixes, the Queen I Collector’s Edition box set comprises the original album with its intended running order restored, intimate fly-on-the-wall audio of Queen in the studio, demos, rare live tracks, and previously unheard recordings from Queen’s first-ever live performance in London, August 1970. Absent from the 1973 release, the song “Mad the Swine” has been reinstated to its original place in the running order. A 108-page book containing handwritten lyrics and memorabilia accompanies the release. To order the Queen I Collector’s Edition box set, visit: http://www.queenIofficial.com
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Gibson Announces Angel White As New Artist Spotlight Musician
Gibson, the iconic, leading American instrument brand has shaped sound across generations and genres of music, becoming one of the most relevant, played, and loved brands around the world. As part of Gibson’s commitment to artist-first culture and elevating new music from emerging musicians around the world, Gibson’s Artist Spotlight Program highlights an evolving roster of musicians who are celebrated across Gibson’s global and international channels. Today, Gibson is thrilled to introduce ANGEL WHITE as part of Gibson’s Artist Spotlight. ANGEL WHITE is a fifth-generation Texas cowboy, beekeeper and singer-songwriter who artfully blends elements of folk, country, soul, and rock to create a sound that’s uniquely his, reflecting the vast landscapes of his upbringing and the untamed spirit of the West. On March 7, ANGEL WHITE will release of his full-length debut album, GHOST OF THE WEST: THE ALBUM, which takes listeners on a journey through soulful melodies, captivating narratives, and introspective lyrics inspired by the wide-open spaces of his hometown of Cleburne, TX, where his roots run deep with a family lineage of cowboys and century-old tradition of raising horses. "Gibson has played an integral role in so much of the music that has shaped me as an artist, and their guitars have been right by my side throughout the process of writing and recording my debut album. I can’t begin to express what an honor it is to be working with a brand that I've admired since day one." –ANGEL WHITE WHITE discovered the power of his own voice after he spent years busking in Deep Ellum, Texas, which inspired him to craft a narrative through his songwriting. Throughout the album, WHITE pays homage to the sidelined narratives of the Mexican, Black, and Native cowboys, historical figures often unjustly erased from both the annals of history and mainstream pop culture depiction of the American West, serving to honor not only his own journey, but also the countless individuals who came before him. Recently, WHITE released a 6-song EP GHOST OF THE WEST: VOLUME I in 2024 which received acclaim from Billboard, KTX and SPIN, who declares it “a feat of storytelling that echoes Willie Nelson and Robert Earl Keen,” while KXT praised, “It’s not a question of if Angel White will become a star - it’s a question of when.” Over the last year, ANGEL WHITE has toured with artists Shane Smith and the Saints, Whiskey Myers, Kaitlin Butts, Paul Cauthen, The Arc Angels, and Josh Abbott Band and has played major festivals like Austin City Limits, FORMAT, Luck Reunion, Bonnaroo, CMA Fest and SXSW, and is slated to perform at Stagecoach Country Music Festival 2025 on Sunday, April 27. Pre-order the new album from ANGEL WHITE, GHOST OF THE WEST: THE ALBUM, due out on March 7, HERE. https://firebird.lnk.to/GHOSTOFTHEWEST Watch the video for the new single “RUNNING IN PLACE” HERE, and the new video for the acoustic performance of the song “CROSSROADS” which was shot and edited by Lane Womack on location at Tate Farms in Rockwall, TX HERE. Gibson’s Artist Spotlight roster celebrates, promotes, and supports a handpicked group of talented artists who demonstrate exceptional innovation and artistry in their craft. Gibson’s Artist Spotlight debuts a new artist each month connecting them with Gibson’s global audience through Gibson.com, social media channels, advertising campaigns, Gibson Garage events, as well as a features in the Gibson Gazette and other music media outlets helping their music reach a wide international audience. Tune in to Gibson’s Monthly Spotify Playlist to discover new music and emerging artists HERE. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3Jelm9XuXiawjXwR99Ko4d For more information regarding the Gibson Artist Spotlight for 2025 visit HERE. https://gazette.gibson.com/news/kapali-long-joins-the-gibson-artist-spotlight-program
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Drifting 17 kilometers nonstop on ice: A GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the Taycan
The record hunt with Porsche Experience instructor Jens Richter behind the wheel began on the afternoon of January 14, 2025 under difficult external conditions. "Under the extreme continuous load of the drifting Taycan, the ice track deteriorated faster than expected," says Jens Richter, describing the challenges. "We therefore had to abort the first attempt after around 11 kilometers." For the second attempt, the team switched to shorter spikes and took advantage of the fact that the ice temperatures dropped again as darkness fell. This attempt was successful: Jens Richter kept the standard Taycan GTS in a controlled drift for a total of 17.503 kilometers or 132 laps using only throttle and steering interventions. With this distance, he secured the world record for the longest uninterrupted drift of an electric car on ice and significantly exceeded the previous record of 14.809 kilometers. "With our new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title on ice, the Taycan has once again proven its sideways driving qualities," says Jens Richter. "And this time even with all-wheel drive. The fact that the Taycan GTS can be controlled so well even under extreme conditions speaks volumes for its excellent chassis and balanced performance." Under the supervision of an official adjudicator from Guinness World Records, the drive took place on an ice track at the Porsche Arctic Center in Levi, Finland, around 150 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. For the record attempt, the Porsche Experience team had created a drift circle with a diameter of 59 meters. Commercially available Michelin tires with one-millimetre spikes were mounted on both axles of the Taycan GTS for the successful record attempt. The vehicle was equipped with a professional GPS measuring device to measure the route precisely. This not only documents the distance travelled, but also records the driver's actions such as steering wheel movements, accelerator and braking, and the G-forces acting on the vehicle. Carl Saville was present as the official adjudicator from Guinness World Records. Immediately afterwards, he presented the record certificate to the driver Jens Richter and to Christian Lehwald, Managing Director of the Porsche Arctic Center and Head of Porsche Experience and New Platforms at Porsche AG. "Our experiential marketing approach involves always trying out unusual things. In the Porsche Arctic Center, we find exceptionally good conditions for drifting on ice. With the new Taycan GTS, we have one of the most powerful electric vehicles on the market. So we were pretty confident that we could break the world record with this combination and accepted the challenge," says Christian Lehwald. ■ High up and in circles for a long time: the other GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title of the Taycan With the new best performance, the electric sports car holds four record certificates: In 2023, Porsche set another GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title with the Taycan Cross Turismo along the Xinjiang-Tibet route. At 5,573 meters, the model mastered the greatest altitude change by an electric car. In 2021, racing driver Leh Keen accelerated a Porsche Taycan to 165.1 km/h in an exhibition hall in New Orleans, Louisiana. He thus set the record at the time for the fastest speed driven by a vehicle in an enclosed building. And in 2020, Porsche Experience instructor Dennis Retera drifted exactly 210 laps in a Taycan at the Porsche Experience Center (PEC) Hockenheimring, covering 42.171 kilometers in 55 minutes.
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Embraer celebrates 10 years of the first flight of the KC-390 Millennium
Embraer (NYSE: ERJ/B3: EMBR3) celebrates today 10 years of the first flight of the KC-390 Millennium, the next-generation multi-mission tactical transport aircraft. The maiden flight, which took place in Gavião Peixoto on February 3rd, 2015, lasted 1 hour and 25 minutes. It provided the crew with an evaluation of the flight characteristics and impressive performance of the KC-390 Millennium. Since then, this fly-by-wire-equipped aircraft has redefined the standards of military airlift, performing a wide range of missions in the most demanding conditions, while achieving remarkable success in global defense markets. In October 2018, the KC-390 Millennium achieved two additional significant milestones: the first flight of the first series-produced aircraft and the receipt of the Type Certificate from the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC). This certification marked a critical milestone towards achieving military certification and demonstrated the aircraft's advanced technological level. “In just one decade, the KC-390 has proven to be an unbeatable combination of versatility, robustness and flexibility, steadily gaining its place in the market and becoming the ideal choice for countries looking for a multi-mission tactical military transport. This aircraft combines the best of aerospace technology with the spirit of Embraer, dedicated to excellence and performance, enabling our customers to execute their missions anytime, anywhere,” says Bosco da Costa Junior, president and CEO of Embraer of Defense & Security. Between August and September 2019, the signing of the contract with Portugal for the acquisition of five KC-390 multi-mission aircraft and the delivery of the first unit to the Brazilian Air Force marked additional important chapters in the KC-390 Millennium's success story. In 2020, one of the most prestigious aviation magazines, Aviation Week, awarded the KC-390 Millennium the Grand Laureate in the Defense category and the Laureate Awards for “Best New Product” in the Defense category. Some days later, Hungary joined the ranks of countries that selected the KC-390 Millennium to enhance their defense capabilities with Embraer’s state-of-the-art aircraft. “The acquisition of the KC-390 by Portugal and Hungary, two leading NATO members, has enabled the KC-390 Millennium to make significant strides in Europe, showcasing the outstanding flexibility, operational efficiency, and low operating costs of this remarkable aircraft,” said Bosco da Costa Junior. In 2022, the Netherlands announced its choice for the Millennium. In 2023, Austria, the Czech Republic and the Republic of Korea also selected the KC-390, confirming the success of this game-changer platform. In 2024, Sweden, Slovakia and an Undisclosed Customer have also opted for the KC-390. Since entering operation with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019, the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, and, most recently the Hungarian Air Force in 2024, the KC-390 has proven its capability, reliability, and performance. The current fleet of 10 operational aircraft – seven with the Brazilian Air Force, two with the Portuguese Air Force and one with the Hungarian Air Force - has accumulated over 16,300 flight hours, with a mission capability rate of 93% and mission completion rates above 99%, demonstrating exceptional productivity in the category. The KC-390 can carry more payload (26 tons) compared to other medium-sized military transport aircraft and flies faster (470 knots) and farther, being capable of performing a wide range of missions, such as transporting and dropping cargo and troops, medical evacuation, search and rescue, air-to-air refueling both as a tanker and a receiver, firefighting and humanitarian missions, operating on temporary or unpaved runways, such as packed earth, soil and gravel.
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Sou's New Single 'Tada kimi no mamade' (Rest in peace.) – Streaming & Music Video Out Now
The vocalist Sou released his new song “Tada, kimi no mamade (Rest in peace.)” which serves as the ending theme song for the currently airing original TV anime "Zenshu.". Sou has 1.67 million YouTube subscribers and about 650,000 followers on X, has garnered attention for his remarkable presence and talent, especially within the online community. "Tada, kimi no mamade (Rest in peace)" is composed by the songwriter and Vocaloid producer Wataru Sena, and the music video is also available with subtitles. The music video features illustrations by Kawa and video direction by Yasukura, blending live-action and animation to effectively depict the merging of the real and digital worlds. In addition to this song, Sou has also released a song titled "Bakesou na kokoro" this year. This is the theme song for the TV anime “A Terrified Teacher at Ghoul School!”
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Gibson Returns to NAMM, Reveals "First Look" of New 2025 Collection
Gibson, the iconic, leading American instrument brand, has shaped sound across generations and genres of music, becoming one of the most relevant, played, and loved brands around the world. With instruments that inspire Gibson’s legendary artists and nurture new players transcending generations and genre of music, Gibson has emerged as an industry leader by offering award-winning guitars and new ways for artists to connect and grow. Gibson is proud to return to NAMM 2025 this week to showcase a handful of the new 2025 line-up during NAMM Global Media Day, and to debut a private, Gibson Speakeasy experience space for our dealer partners, media, and creators--by appointment only. “Gibson and NAMM share in our missions to better lives through music and to strengthen the music instruments industry at large,” says Beth Heidt, Chief Marketing Officer at Gibson. “At NAMM, the MI community connects with industry leaders, retailers, influencers and artists, to learn about new products and trends while supporting professional development, music education and nonprofits through the arts. Gibson is especially proud to join forces with the Los Angeles Wildfire Relief program this year at NAMM to support our Los Angeles community of artists and music makers.” Catch up on Gibson's up-to the-minute NAMM 2025 happenings via the Gibson NAMM live blog on our Gazette: Gibson at NAMM 2025: Live Blog - Gibson Gazette. The Gibson team will also deliver daily panels during NAMM at the following locations: Wednesday, January 22: • NAMM Global Media Day (Mat Koehler, Gibson, Vice President of Product) 4:00 PM at Level 3 Ballroom, Anaheim Convention Center • Innovations in Music: Tools and Techniques for Modern Studios (Deston Bennett, KRK Audio Relations) 11:20-AM 12:30 PM at TEC Tracks/Hilton Avila Thursday, January 23: • Industry Insights with John Mlynczak- Stability and Unity (Beth Heidt, Gibson CMO) 8:30-9:30 AM at Hilton Pacific Ballroom (Level 2) • Career Journeys-NAMM Young Professionals -Moderator (Beth Heidt, Gibson CMO) 3:00-3:40 PM at NAMM Idea Center Stage Friday, January 24: • Evolution of Content and the Industry with Rick Beato-(Rick Beato and Tim Pierce with Mateus Asato) 10-11:00 AM at Hilton California Ballroom A, Level2 Green Room • Building a Brand in the Music Industry: Is Brand Dead?-(Sterling Doak, Senior Director of Marketing, Gibson and Krista Gilley, Director of Brands, Gibson), 1:00-1:30 PM at NAMM U/NAMM Idea Center Stage Saturday, January 25: • MESA/Boogie, Gibson Amplifiers and More, House of Worship Panel-(Andrew Ladner (Director of Brands, MESA/Boogie and Gibson Amplifiers, and Maestro) 10:30 AM TEC Track, Hilton Laguna Room • She Rocks Awards-(Beth Heidt, Gibson CMO) Honoree, Brilliance Award in Leadership 6:00 PM at Hilton Pacific Ballroom, Level 2 Below is a snapshot of the highlights for Gibson at NAMM 2025, with much more to be revealed: Gibson Custom: The ultimate in craftsmanship, art and historical accuracy. Gibson Custom is the pinnacle of Gibson design, delivering the most coveted instruments on earth. Handcrafted in the USA using generations of old techniques that defined guitar making, Gibson Custom is the crown jewel of the industry. 1955 NAMM Show Commemorative Edition Les Paul Gibson Custom is proud to introduce the 1955 NAMM Show Commemorative Edition Les Paul, celebrating the 70th anniversary of the five custom color Gibson Les Pauls that were displayed at the 1955 NAMM Show. Gibson displayed these five distinctive Les Paul™ models at the 1955 NAMM Show--which was held in Chicago, IL--with each guitar finished in one of five custom metallic nitrocellulose lacquer car finishes–Samoa Beige, Copper Iridescent, Nugget Gold, Platinum, and Viceroy Brown. In addition to their custom metallic finishes, they were outfitted with no-wire ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic™ bridges and Stop Bar tailpieces. These bridges were first introduced on the Gibson Super 400 in 1953 and were used on the 1954 Les Paul Custom, but they made their first appearance on a standard Les Paul model with the five guitars that were displayed at the 1955 NAMM Show. These distinctive-looking and historically notable Les Pauls were made in extremely limited numbers, and the whereabouts of only a few are known today. This special run is limited to only 70 guitars in each of the custom colors, with the custom metallic nitrocellulose lacquer car finishes expertly recreated by Gibson for the first time ever. Each of these guitars features historically accurate 1955 specifications, including a lightweight one-piece mahogany body and a hide glue-fitted two-piece plain maple cap. Even the color matched Speed knobs replicate the knobs on the guitars that were shown at the 1955 NAMM Show. The one-piece mahogany neck has a long neck tenon, a 1950s Chunky D-Shape neck profile, and an Indian rosewood fretboard that has 22 historic narrow/tall frets, a 12” fretboard radius, and is adorned with aged cellulose nitrate trapezoid inlays. The headstock features a period-correct “low logo” holly headstock veneer and is equipped with a nylon nut and single line, single ring Kluson® tuners, and has a historical 1955 limited run serial number on the back. The pickups are a pair of cream-covered Custom Shop P-90 Soapbars that are hand-wired to 500k CTS® potentiometers and paper-in-oil capacitors. Each guitar in this limited edition also features Light Aging by the skilled artisans of the Murphy Lab. The Murphy Lab Light Aged finish treatment, paired with lightly aged hardware, simulates decades of light play wear, giving these guitars the unique character, vibe, and feel of an original example from the Gibson Golden Era. A brown/pink Lifton™ five-latch case is also included to complete the authentic vintage ownership. Highly collectible, only 70 of the 1955 NAMM Show Commemorative Edition Les Paul guitars from Gibson Custom will be made in each of the five colors, for a total of 350 guitars. Explore the 1955 NAMM Show Commemorative Edition Les Paul guitars from Gibson Custom: HERE. https://www.gibson.com/en-US/p/Electric-Guitar/1955-NAMM-Show-Commemorative-Edition-Les-Paul/Samoa-Beige Gibson: Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, our Gibson USA electric factory located at our headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee, has been shaping sound across genres and is played by the most influential guitarists across generations. Innovators of the electric solid body guitar and the aspiration of players around the world. Les Paul Standard 50s Double Trouble The Les Paul Standard 50s Double Trouble delivers all of the features and performance of our regular Les Paul 50s models, but with even more vintage appeal. All of the standard features that make Les Paul Standard 50s models so widely loved are present here, including a sold non weight relieved mahogany body with an AA Figured maple top and a rounded 50s Vintage-style mahogany neck with a rosewood fretboard, 22 medium jumbo frets, and trapezoid inlays. These limited-run Les Paul models differ from our standard Les Paul Standard 50s models in two respects. First, the Burstbucker 1 and Burstbucker 2 pickups are left uncovered, and each has Double Classic White bobbins—handcrafted in the Gibson Pickup Shop--and is fitted with the standard Alnico 2 magnets. The second difference is in the finish as the colors are “Vintage” variations on our standard nitrocellulose lacquer finishes. Our standard gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finishes represent the finishes on the brand new models from the 1950s, while the full gloss nitrocellulose lacquer Vintage finishes on the Les Paul Standard 50s Double Trouble models are slightly faded, like the subtly faded light vintage aging that occurs over several years, and the burst patterns vary somewhat from guitar to guitar as each is individually hand-sprayed. The Les Paul Standard 50s Double Trouble are limited to 500 guitars each in Vintage Cherry Sunburst and Vintage Tobacco Burst. Les Paul Standard 60s Double Trouble Likewise, the Les Paul Standard 60s Double Trouble delivers all of the features and performance of our regular Les Paul 60s models, but with even more vintage appeal. All the standard features that make the Les Paul Standard 60’s models so widely loved are still here, including a solid, non-weight relieved mahogany body with a AA figured maple top and a Slim Taper profile mahogany neck with a rosewood fretboard, 22 medium jumbo frets and trapezoid inlays. Thees limited run Les Paul models differ from our standard Les Paul Standard 60s models in two respects. First, the Burstbucker 61R and Burstbucker 61T humbucker pickups are left uncovered, and each has Double Classic White bobbins and is fitted with Alnico 5 magnets. The second difference is the finish. The colors are “Vintage” variations on our standard nitrocellulose lacquer finish. Our standard gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finishes represent the finishes on brand new models from the 1960s, while the full-gloss nitrocellulose lacquer Vintage finishes on the Les Paul Standard 60s Double Trouble models are slightly faded when compared to the standard versions, like the subtly faded light vintage aging that occurs over several years, additionally, the burst patterns vary somewhat from guitar to guitar since each is individually hand-sprayed. The Les Paul Standard 60’s Double Trouble are limited to 500 guitars each in Vintage Cherry Sunburst and Vintage Tobacco Burst. Warren Haynes Les Paul Standard Warren Haynes is highly regarded for his work in rock, blues, and Americana music with the Allman Brothers Band, as a founding member of Gov’t Mule, as a session guitarist and sideman for numerous famous friends and groups, as the leader of The Warren Haynes Band, and as a solo artist. A master of multiple styles and genres, Warren has also shared his expertise with other players via multiple instructional videos. A self-described “Gibson man,” Warren has used several Gibson models throughout the years, including his cherished ’61 ES-335, among others. The Warren Haynes Les Paul Standard is another standout, with features tailored specifically to Warren’s preferences, including a mahogany body with a plain maple cap topped with a 60s Cherry finish, just like his cherished ’61 ES-335, a mahogany neck with a chunky 50s vintage neck profile, like all of Warren’s favorite Les Pauls, and much more. Bearing the traditional looks and feel of a 50’s-era Les Paul coupled with modern features like hum-free P-90 DC pickups and an on board clean boost, the Gibson Warren Haynes Les Paul Standard bridges modern and traditional and is a great choice for players who, like Warren, want both a traditional appearance and modern functionality in one outstanding guitar. Gibson Custom Acoustic – Murphy Lab: 1936 Advanced Jumbo Gibson Custom is proud to introduce the Gibson 1936 Advance Jumbo “Heavy Aged” acoustic guitar. During a time when cultural optimism was low, Gibson dreamed up a new line of advanced instruments, and included in those models was the Advanced Jumbo. Due to low production numbers from 1936-1939, this model largely flew under the radar even though it was a supreme-sounding and performing instrument. Outfitted with a thermally aged red spruce top, rosewood back and sides, and premium Waverly tuners, the 1936 Advanced Jumbo brings back all the tone and prestige that made these such sought-after instruments by artists and collectors. It features Heavy Aging by the skilled artisans of the Murphy Lab. The Murphy Lab Heavy Aged finish treatment, paired with heavily aged hardware, simulates decades of heavy play wear, giving it the unique character, vibe, and feel of an original example from the Gibson Golden Era. The Gibson 1936 Advance Jumbo arrives in a stunning Vintage Sunburst, expect a heavy weather-checked finish, heavy belt buckle wear, light arm wear, and light neck wear. 1939 SJ-100 New for 2025, the Gibson Custom 1939 SJ-100 is a replica of the rare and distinctive mahogany-backed Super Jumbo 100 that was built for only a few years (circa 1939-1942). The 1939 SJ-100 Heavy Aged fully replicates the original and exceptionally rare 1939 SJ-100 guitars that are coveted by collectors and vintage Gibson experts around the world. It features a thermally aged red spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a two piece maple neck with a rounded profile and an ebony fretboard. Other notable features include a vintage SJ-100 style firestripe pickguard, the rare, vintage “stair step” headstock design, the Gibson script headstock logo inlaid in mother of pearl, and Waverly tuners with ivoroid knobs. Crafted by the expert luthiers and craftspeople at the Gibson Custom Shop in Bozeman, Montana, the Gibson Custom 1939 SJ-100 has been artfully aged by the artisans of the Murphy Lab to give it the look and feel of a long-cherished musical companion. 1942 Banner J-45 The allure and legend of the Gibson J-45 lives on in the new Murphy Lab 1942 Banner J-45. Inspired by the holy grail of vintage acoustic instruments, luthiers in Montana meticulously crafted a J-45 just like the most popular and celebrated version in structure and components. The new 1942 Banner J-45 includes a thermally aged red spruce top hand-sprayed with a historic-style burst, hot hide glue top bracing for better tonal response, and a bone nut and saddle. It features a Heavy Aging finish by the Murphy Lab paired with heavily aged hardware that simulates decades of heavy play wear, giving it the unique character, vibe, and feel of an original example from the Gibson Golden Era. The 1942 Banner J-45 arrives in a striking Vintage Sunburst, expect a heavy weather-checked finish, heavy belt buckle wear, light arm wear, and light neck wear. 1960 Hummingbird Introduced in 1960 as Gibson’s first square shoulder acoustic guitar, the Hummingbird arrived at the dawn of a new era in music and was rapidly embraced by the prime movers on the scene. Built with a thermally aged Sitka spruce top, the 1960 Hummingbird Heavy Aged reflects the appearance and performance of those early icons. Featuring a mahogany neck with an Indian rosewood fretboard, a fixed bone bridge, bone nut, and bone bridge pins, the famous casted hummingbird pickguard, and gold Gotoh tuners with Keystone buttons, it has been masterfully aged by the artisans of the Murphy Lab to give it the look and feel of a long-cherished musical companion. The Gibson Custom 1960 Hummingbird arrives in a beautiful Heavy Aged Washed Cherry Sunburst finish. 1963 Country Western First introduced in a square shoulder configuration in 1962, the Country Western was created as a variation of Gibson’s popular Southern Jumbo model. With the body shape of a Hummingbird, but in a Natural finish and having an unadorned tortoise pickguard, the Country Western delivers wonderful tonal quality and a unique look that has been a resounding hit with players from the moment it was first released, all the way up to the present day; it has been one of Gibson’s most requested models for reissue since the 1990s. The 1963 Country Western features a thermally-aged Sitka spruce top, a mahogany back, sides, and neck, and Indian rosewood fretboard with 20 standard frets and mother of pearl parallelogram inlays, a bone bridge, nut and bridge pins, the classic Country Western tortoise pickguard, and nickel Gotoh tuners with white buttons. The 1963 Country Western arrives in a unique Smoked Natural, Heavy Aged finish from the Murphy Lab to give it the look and feel of a well-loved, longtime musical companion. Gibson Acoustic: The trademark Gibson Acoustic sound is defined by our signature characteristics from dovetail neck to body joint, domed top, and scalloped bracing to nitro lacquer. Made in Bozeman, MT, Gibson Acoustics are the pinnacle of hand-crafted quality, and sound excellence. Each instrument celebrates Gibson's legacy through accuracy, beauty, and attention to detail. Gibson J-45 Special First introduced in 1942, the Gibson J-45 has remained a mainstay Gibson acoustic model. It earned the name “The Workhorse” due to its wide acceptance, no-nonsense simplicity, and understated elegance. One of the most recorded acoustic guitars in history, the Gibson J-45 is Gibson’s best-selling acoustic guitar of all time. Handcrafted with care in Bozeman, Montana, by Gibson’s expert luthiers, the new Gibson J-45 Special offers players a USA-built Gibson acoustic guitar at a very attractive price. The J-45 Special has a round shoulder body constructed using genuine solid mahogany for the back and sides and a solid Sitka spruce top. The top is reinforced with our traditional scalloped X-bracing. This combination of tonewoods delivers a warn, balanced tone with excellent dynamic range that is great for any musical genre. The “concert depth” body is slightly thinner than a J-45 Standard, giving the J-45 Special a leaner and tighter bass response that sits perfectly in the mix and also makes it easier to hold. The utile neck is attached to the body with a compound dovetail neck-to-body joint, and like all Gibson acoustic guitars, it is affixed with hot hide glue. The neck has a comfortable and fast-playing Slim Taper profile, and the rosewood fretboard has a 12” radius and is adorned with simple mother-of pearl dot inlays and is fitted with 20 standard frets. The traditional belly-up rosewood bridge is equipped with a TUSQ saddle, and the nut and bridge pins are also TUSQ. High quality Grover Rotomatic tuners ensure solid tuning stability. The J-45 Special is finished in satin nitrocellulose lacquer in Satin Vintage Sunburst or Satin Wine Red. It comes with an L.R. Baggs Element Bronze Under-saddle piezo pickup with active electronics and an easily accessible soundhole-mounted volume control pre-installed studio-quality plug-and-play anywhere. Margo Price J-45 The music of multiple award-winning artist Margo Price transcends the boundaries of traditional country, Americana, and classic rock, and her Gibson J-45 acoustic has always been by her side during her rise as a top country artist. Gibson Custom’s Margo Price J-45 embodies the spirit, vision, and talent that has driven Margo to stardom and continues the nature-themed model tradition of Gibson. The Margo Price J-45 was inspired by her mid-60s J-45, a guitar she’s called “my main baby; my guitar I play all the time.” The Margo Price J-45 features a slightly thinner mahogany body with a red spruce top with traditional hand-scalloped advance X-bracing, a mahogany neck with a Rounded profile and rosewood fretboard, and Grover strap tuners with white buttons. The nut and saddle are bone and the bridge pins are TUSQ. The Margo Price J-45 also comes equipped with L.R. Baggs electronics, so it’s studio and stage ready right out of the included hardshell case. Margo was also inspired by red-tailed hawks, which feature prominently on the distinctive double 50s-style pickguards of her new signature guitar. As Margo says, “Red Tailed hawks have always been symbolic to me. I see them everywhere, and I always have, as they’re common all over the U.S., but to me, they’re otherworldly, and they always come to me in my time of need with messages of strength and perseverance. Red, as a color, relates to love, passion, and even anger, matters that we typically would associate with the heart, but if you look closely, the ends of their feathers are dipped in white, and the bird itself has a spiritual nature. When I’m on long trips, I look out the window and count them alongside the highway. They pass over me at the most kismet times, reminding me to find strength in my vulnerability, and to open up and connect with those around me. I hope this guitar will remind those who play it these lessons as well.” Epiphone: Les Paul Custom The Epiphone Les Paul Custom has been updated and is now better than ever. Part of the Inspired by Gibson Collection, it honors the 1950s-era classic that was designed by Mr. Les Paul himself in 1954 as the “tuxedo” version of his groundbreaking solidbody masterpiece. It features an all-mahogany body, a mahogany neck with a refined Modern Medium C neck profile, an ebony fretboard and pearloid block inlays and medium jumbo frets, gold hardware, including a gold Epiphone LockTone Tune-o-Matic bridge and LockTone Stop Bar tailpiece, a pair of Epiphone’s new Probucker Custom humbucker pickups, which are based on Gibson Custom’s Custombucker humbucking pickups, and a larger Custom split-diamond inlay on the headstock, a Graph Tech nut, era-appropriate wiring, and CTS potentiometers. An Epiphone premium gig bag is now included to help keep your guitar safe when not in use and when traveling. Les Paul Standard 60s Epiphone’s long friendship with Mr. Les Paul began in 1940 when Les built one of the world’s first solidbody electric guitars while working nights at the original Epiphone factory in Manhattan. Les’s first solid body guitar, nicknamed “the Log,” would go on to inspire the Les Paul Standard, which many consider the greatest electric guitar ever made. The Les Paul Standard 60s models from the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Collection recreate the look, feel and sound of the early 1960s-era Les Pauls. They feature a mahogany body with a maple cap, and the models with translucent finishes have an added AAA frame maple veneer visible through the finish for that classic “flame top” look. The mahogany neck sports a laurel fretboard with pearloid trapezoid inlays, 22 medium jumbo frets, and a fast-playing 60s SlimTaper profile. The headstock is equipped with quality Grover Rotomatic tuning machines and a Graph Tech nut for rock-solid tuning stability, so you can spend more time playing and less time tuning. The Les Paul Standard 60s is powered by a perfectly balanced set of Epiphone’s acclaimed Probucker pickups, with a Probucker 2 in the neck position, and a slightly hotter Probucker 3 in the bridge, and each pickup is wired to its own individual set of volume and tone controls that feature CTS potentiometers. Available in Blueberry Burst, Iced Tea Burst, Fuchsia, Ebony, Silver Mist and Heather Poly and packaged in a Premium Gig Bag, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s is a great way to enjoy an authentic Les Paul playing experience at an accessible price. J-180 In partnership With Gibson Acoustic in Bozeman and Made for the Stars of Today-And Tomorrow. The Gibson J-180 has been the choice of rock, country, and pop royalty, including legendary artists like the Everly Brothers, Cat Stevens, Dwight Yoakam, and Billie Joe Armstrong, up to some of today’s most famous artists. In partnership with Gibson Acoustic in Bozeman, Montana, Epiphone is proud to release a new version of this player-favorite guitar. The Epiphone J-180 LS is packed with premium features, including a thermally aged solid spruce top with scalloped X bracing, solid mahogany back and sides, a one-piece mahogany neck with a 25.5” scale length, C-profile, laurel fretboard, and the iconic “star” mother of pearl inlays that the model is so well known for. The compensated saddle, bridge pins, and nut are bone, and the headstock features the world-famous Gibson-style “open book” headstock shape, with the Epiphone logo and headstock star proudly displayed in mother of pearl. An Inspired by Gibson Custom Double Diamond emblem is etched on the rear of the headstock. Available in a variety of eye-catching colors and equipped with an L.R. Baggs™ VTC under-saddle pickup and preamp system, this exceptional guitar is stage and studio-ready from the moment you take it out of the included hardshell case. The Epiphone J-180 LS is available worldwide in Ebony, Pink, and Frost Blue. Exclusive colors, available only on www.epiphone.com, include Kerry Green and Lavender. MESA/Boogie: MESA/Boogie® is the original boutique Home of Tone, hand-crafting amplifiers of uncompromising quality from the world’s finest materials in Petaluma, California, USA. 90s Dual Rectifier A faithful recreation of the tube amp that redefined high gain and provided much of the soundtrack of a generation, the new MESA/Boogie 90s Dual Rectifier arrives with some welcome upgrades. Built by the same artisans who made them 30 years ago, the 90s Dual Rectifier amplifiers are an original icon. The MESA/Boogie Dual Rectifier Solo Head’s arrival in 1992 was a watershed moment for alternative rock and metal that changed everything; heavy music would never sound the same again, and the Dual Rectifier’s crushing, harmonically rich tone became the most sought-after guitar sound of the era. With a feel as empowering as its sound, the Rectifiers provided an ease of playing that supported and elevated proficiency and was inspirational, rewarding, and addictive. Its sound and impact on the generation that used it to define what rock music would become were as sweeping as they have been lasting. And it remains arguably the most modeled in today’s digital amp landscape. Now, the 90s Dual Rectifier is back with a vengeance, built in Petaluma, California, by the same artisans who made the originals the most desirable high-gain guitar amplifier of all time. Explore the new MESA/Boogie 90s Dual Rectifier HERE. https://www.mesaboogie.com/en-US/p/Amp/90s-Dual-Rectifier/2-DR2B-3-A and watch/share the interview and full demo of the 90s Dual Rectifier with Doug West, Director, Tone Lab, Gibson Amplifiers/MESA/Boogie, and Tommy Waugh, Product Manager, Gibson Amplifiers/MESA/Boogie HERE. Mark IIC+ Combo and Head The Mark IIC+ is one of the most legendary guitar amps ever made, and the new Mark IIC+ 1x12 Combo and Head are authentic recreations of the legendary originals. Over the past four decades, they have been used on many iconic recordings in a wide range of genres, particularly rock and metal. Now back in production, it’s time to plug into one of the most-recorded electric guitar amplifiers in history. Explore the new MESA/Boogie Mark IIC+ HERE. https://www.mesaboogie.com/en-US/p/Amp/Mark-IIC-plus-1x12-Combo/1-MCP-AB-CO and watch/share the interview Doug West and Tommy Waugh HERE. Gibson Amplifiers: Dual Falcon Amplifier Focusing on great sound, simplicity, and ease of use, the new Gibson Falcon Amplifiers pay homage to the 1960s Falcons and offer the versatility demanded on modern stages and home studios with exceptional build quality, quiet operation, and voicings that will captivate and delight players. As Gibson proudly returned to the guitar amplifier arena last year, the Dual Falcon 20 2x10 combo amplifier—which joins the Falcon 5 and Falcon 20—is a versatile addition to the Gibson Amplifier lineup that is inspired by vintage Gibson amplifiers, yet reimagined for today’s player, delivering vintage tone in an upgraded 2-channel offering with Loop and Power Switching alongside valuable new features and all of the original magic intact. The Dual Falcon 20 2x10 combo revives the Gibson amplifier as the icon it is as perfect tonal enhancements update the sound and feel, with a wider, more usable range on the sparse controls, and lush traditional spring Reverb adds dimension and broadens stylistic horizons. The original smooth-sounding Tremolo adds further vibe while selectable output power options expand the versatility with options of Full, Half, or Low power modes in this new 2- channel model. In addition, a buffered series Effects Loop opens up more processing options to complete the outfitting for performance applications. These updates allow the new Dual Falcon 20 2x10 combo to soar even higher above the most prized vintage Gibson examples. The Gibson Dual Falcon amplifiers are available in both Combo Cream Bronco Vinyl with Oxblood Grille, and the striking Surf Bronco with Bone Grille colors. All Gibson Falcon Amplifiers are handcrafted in Petaluma, California and are available worldwide. Explore all Gibson Falcon Amplifiers HERE. https://www.gibson.com/en-US/amps Tobias: Tobias basses deliver exceptional clarity in the low end, punchy, articulate midrange, sweetness in the high frequencies and tonal balance. Reintroducing the Tobias Classic IV, Classic V, Growler IV, Growler V, Killer B IV, and Killer B V crafted from the finest tonewoods, these Tobias models features a 34” scale, 5-piece stringer neck through-body made from hard maple and purpleheart. Tobias is now back for a limited run of the iconic models that made Tobias famous. Kramer: 1983 Baretta Reissue, Made in Japan New from Kramer in 2025 is the 1983 Baretta Reissue, Made in Japan. In 1983, the Kramer Baretta was first introduced to the world. Few models can claim to have changed the course of musical history, but that is exactly what the Baretta did when it was embraced by a new generation of highly innovative hard rock and metal guitarists. The wildly successful Baretta was the perfect platform for their fretboard pyrotechnics, and its success was a big contributor to Kramer becoming the most popular guitar brand in the world by the mid-1980s. With its double cutaways maple body providing excellent sustain and unimpeded fretboard access, the powerful simplicity of its single Seymour Duncan ’59 pickup paired with a single volume control, and an Original Floyd Rose tremolo with R5 locking nut that stays in tune under even the most demanding wiggle stick acrobatics, it is still the quintessential hard rock and metal guitar that is Made to Rock Hard. This faithful reissue of the groundbreaking 1983 Baretta was lovingly crafted in Japan to vintage specifications and comes with a certificate of authenticity and a Kramer hardshell case. KRK: ROKIT Generation Five Monitors As the unwavering cornerstone of professional audio monitoring for over three decades, KRK earned its reputation through a rich history of innovation and precision. Building off this legacy, Gibson introduces the newest addition to KRK’s impressive range of professional audio solutions: the ROKIT Generation Five Studio Monitors. Offered in three sizes--five, seven, and eight-inch--these advanced, active, two-way studio reference monitors feature three new voicing modes, an enhanced tweeter design, and a refreshed LCD. KRK ROKIT Generation Five monitors were created for the diverse needs of musicians, composers, producers, and sound engineers and provide the tools needed to reproduce every nuance of a production with astonishing clarity. Explore the new KRK ROKIT Generation Five line HERE. https://www.krkmusic.com/collections/rokit-series-generation-five-powered-studio-monitors and watch/share the new video featuring the KRK ROKIT Generation Five HERE. Maestro: Maestro Original Collection Maestro was the first commercially successful pedal, it changed everything, and set the entire world of pedals and effects into motion. The Maestro Original Collection spans 10 effect pedals, each designed to let sonic sculptors Shape Your Sound. The exciting additions to the Maestro effect pedal family, including the Fuzz-Tone FZ-M, Invader Distortion, Ranger Overdrive, Comet Chorus, Discoverer Delay, Agena Envelope Filter, Arcas Compressor Sustainer, Mariner Tremolo, Orbit Phaser, and Titan Boost. Maestro sounds are relevant to new, casual, and professional level players, explore the full Maestro Original Collection Maestro | Shape Your Sound.
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Sou's New Single 'Bakesou na Kokoro' – Streaming & Music Video Out Now
The new digital single "Bakesou na Kokoro" by vocalist Sou, known for his impressive presence and talent in the online world, is now available for streaming, alongside the release of its music video with English and Chinese subtitles. With 1.67 million YouTube subscribers and about 650,000 followers on X (formerly Twitter), Sou continues to gain attention for his outstanding voice and internet-based success. "Bakesou na Kokoro" is a track produced by vocaloid producer Chinozo and is featured as the opening theme for the second season of the TV anime A Terrified Teacher at Ghoul School!, which starts airing tonight. The music video, featuring unique visuals and illustrations by aruseee, showcases a dramatic and expressive portrayal of a character's romantic struggles. Additionally, on January 17, the ending theme for the original anime "Zenshu" titled "Rest in peace" will be released. Produced by vocaloid creator Wataru Sena, the song promises to be a must-listen alongside the anime. With two digital singles planned for release in 2025, Sou is riding a wave of momentum, and his continued success is highly anticipated this year. Also, don't miss Sou's 6th album Sense of Wonder, now available on Souキンクリ堂 For more details, visit the special album site: https://king-cr.jp/sou_senseofwonder/
