Gibson BFG Series

This is a rock guitar. It's not flashy, it's not "purty". It is simple, cut back, lean and mean. The new Gibgson BFG Series is a perfect example of how more in most often not better. Gibson's press release reads:

A stripped-down, rock ’n’ roll flamethrower, the Les Paul BFG is the most powerful Les Paul Gibson has ever made. Blasted back to the bare essentials, the BFG is the Les Paul for guitarists who want it loud, raw, and wild. Two volumes and one tone knob control the sonic spectrum put out by a high-powered Burstbucker 3 humbucker in the bridge and a screaming, singlecoil P-90 in the neck. The traditional toggle has been rewired as a kill switch, and a mini-toggle at the volume knobs controls pickup selection. An innovative powerhouse, the BFG has no binding, no figured top, no finishing touches. This gives the BFG a distinctive look that is both modern and vintage, while allowing for a price that makes pure Les Paul performance available to all players. The result is a perfect storm of eye-catching style, incredible tone, and unbeatable playability—all at a great price. Destined to be a classic.

I love this new series. It's what a guitar should be, a tool. Sure we can all admire a beautifully crafted instrument, but this guitar just screams "play me!!!!" very loud and proud. That said, Gibson's promotion of this strikes me as a little odd. They seem to be pushing it as a metal player's guitar (as seen here). If that was the target market, why throw in a soapbar pickup in the neck position. That inclusion and the style hints at blues/roots more than anything else, so the whole metal thing I find quite strange. I think Gibson may miss out on a hug e potential customer base for this guitar if their current marketing plan continues.