No. 271, July 2015

Guitar Evolution

Kaki King’s bold new album, The Neck Is a Bridge to the Body

Status Quo

Milk Carton Kids stick to the tried-and-true on new album

New Stories

Old Ways Norman Blake pays tribute to a vanishing era

The Collector

Maple Byrne cares for Emmylou’s guitars . . . and more than a few of his own

News

The Beat

The Spirit Family Reunion spread the joy of playing; T Bone Burnett produces Striking Matches; an anti-fracking compilation

News Spotlight

Dwight Yoakam: Guitars, heartbreak, etc., etc

PLAY

Basics

Using strumming dynamics to bring songs to life

Here’s How

Open-G tuning is great for more than blues

Weekly Workout

Learn the subtle intricacies of single-chord grooves

AG Trade

Shop Talk

Alembic sets sights on acoustic guitar market; Traveling Guitar Foundation brings music to schools; Gibson acquires Harmony Central

Makers & Shakers

Andy Powers is helping to reinvigorate Taylor Guitars

Review: Riversong Tradition

Canadian Deluxe Flawless craftsmanship, impressive playability, bold design

Review: Simon & Patrick Showcase Rosewood Concert Hall

A stage-ready instrument easy on the eyes, ears, and wallet

Review: Tanglewood Java TWJP E

An appealing and affordable parlor-size guitar

Guitar Guru

Does wood-grain orientation really matter?

Great Acoustics

Santa Cruz’s stunning No. 10,000

Mixed Media

Playlist

Tallest Man on Earth expands his sound on Dark Bird Is Home; also, the Gibson Brothers’ Brotherhood, Ross Hammond’s Flight, and Sugarcane Jane’s debut, Dirt Road’s End