It's day two of the show for us, and we've had a few nice surprises. Didn't expect to actually get to try one of the new Eastman Giacomels, but there was a prototype, albeit one with a headstock logo miscue. Guess they ran out of Duct Tape. (Inside joke, nevermind if you don't get the Grisman connection...) The Eastman booth location made it heard to make any true sonic evaluation; way too much ambient hall noise, but let's just say they are bear a unique feel and response. We're hoping for a close up and intimate review in the future.

The new Collings A Oval are everything you'd expect of them. Warm, tubby sound, and the usual perfection in detail. It was great to meet Kim Warner of the Greencards in person, too. Great musician and nice guy.

We did run into Bill Bay (Pres. Mel Bay Publishing) at one of the "I'm not worthy" rooms at Gruhns Guitars the day before the show. Glad to hear the Mississipi floods aren't affecting them this time in Pacific, MO. He did say the "Getting into Jazz Mandolin" book was on tap. Just waiting for the presses, but probably won't make the June deadline as anticipated.

Heading back to the Sound to Earth booth this afternoon. Some amazing custom Webers there to spend quality time with.

Read more: Mandolin Cafe Report

Posted by Ted at June 21, 2008 06:25 AM