G.R. Bear OM-C 2022, Australian Blackwood & Italian Spruce

If "pure" and "lush" can describe the same guitar, we think that somewhat opposing set of adjectives applies to this OM-C from luthier G.R. Bear. Living up to Rye's goal of crafting a versatile instrument that is "responsive to the lightest touch, while not lacking headroom", his OM is beautifully suited to all styles of playing.  Like all of his steel string guitars, he uses Falcate braces inside, crafted of Paulownia hardwood and carbon-reinforced, allowing the tops to be light and flexible yet strong. For this model, he used Italian spruce for the soundboard, and Australian blackwood, a member of the acacia species and relative of koa, for the back and sides. An incredibly resonant tonewood, that certainly explains this guitar's long, beautiful note decay. There's a pleasing balance to this guitar's voice, with an attack that's clear, but not aggressive.

TNAG sold this when it was new last year, and now it's back in pristine condition with its original Visesnut case.