Epiphone Joe Bonamassa Lazarus - Guitar Review - 1959 Les Paul

[@theguitaristas]

Hey all, thanks for all the support and comments so far! I've had a few good questions about the difference in neck size between Lazarus and the '59 so here's my answer... I just compared the profiles with measuring 'tool' and although they are very similar the '59 is a little fuller (rounder) at the 1st fret becoming less so as it progress towards the 12th. Both are incredibly comfortable to play and feel and sound very similar... so I expect I will now have to make a comparison video between the two to find out for sure?... what do you reckon shall we have a burst-off battle? Cheers.

[@johnwalsh3826]

Great video, love the channel, I nearly pulled the trigger on one of these last week myself but couldn’t justify it having bought the 50s and the 59 in the last 6 months, definitely you should do a comparison video between the 59 and the Lazarus and the 50s Les Paul’s,

[@murrayguitarpickups9545]

Yeah why not, who doesn't want to hear these as much as possible?

[@paulsworld2]

Yes please!!!!!

[@JB-qe5eb]

Go for it!

[@muliadi26]

Please. It will be so helpful for me. I‘m still considering between the Lazarus and the 59.

[@Moyetniishiswa2000]

“We can’t claim the wood was harvested from the Everglades by a long lost tribe of Ninjas”😂😂😂😂 classic comment - love your work!

[@Mr.56Goldtop]

They can claim it, they just can't prove it .

[@jordanpratt3821]

I know..I nearly fell put of my chair.

[@unclefungus7395]

i don’t care about joe bonamassa’s music or anything but i do like that because of him there’s a bit more variety in the epiphone line up

[@PaulSter]

I'm not a huge fan of his music, but I am very much a fan of his playing. Amazing player. Also a very genuine and funny guy from all of him I see and from folks who have met him. He's self-effacing with is always appealing in a famous musician. And, like you said, he has impeccable taste in gear - which translates into great tone.

[@joeykelly5642]

I’ve liked some of his other signature models (like the Firebird I), but this one seems like something that’s already in the Epiphone lineup - not sure what separates it from the other two 50’s-inspired LPs besides the (not all that unique) finish

[@PaulSter]

@@joeykelly5642 the only one that is really close in the '59, which are great too. For $50, USD more, you're just getting nicer tops (if you like flame), and kind of amazing, a true one piece neck. No scarf joint. Of course, it's also long-tenon. I think the case is pretty cool too. Lastly, I have to believe that these are collectable and will appreciate in value. Try to find one right now, but then check the prices. Makes me sick. Someone bought a slew of them and is selling them for something like $1250,(one is over $1500). F'in scalpers. Edit - the 50's Standard has probuckers and I'm not sure the CTS pots are of same level as the '59 and Lazarus as I'm told that not all CTS pots are equal. It's really not a big deal in the grand scheme of things though. I find the pro-buckers to be fairly decent. I like BBs much, much, better though

[@michaelvanbuskirk8845]

@@PaulSter I'm the opposite. Joe Bonamassa is my favorite living blues guitarist and his skills are amazing.

[@PaulSter]

@@michaelvanbuskirk8845 opposite of what? WTF?

[@Edward1312]

Its blowing my mind how good these new Epiphone Les Paul's are considering the price point. Fantastic value IMHO.

[@mralgebro]

Your channel is quickly becoming my favorite go to for guitar geeky stuff. I love your sense of humor and honesty. Thanks for doing the channel every week!!

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Sean, of course, although that means I will have to keep buying guitars to review for your pleasure... but it you want to me to keep doing it I suppose I must! ;) Cheers man have a great weekend!

[@brutus6328]

I also have to say, for a "plain top" on your R8, you hit the JACKPOT!!!

[@shovington67]

Colin, your solo around the 22:00 minute mark was beautifully done ! If I closed my eyes, that was like any number of excellent classic blues men laying down a great solo. Ive heard and seen many, many great artists in my life, and that was as soulful a slow solo as anybody. Sometimes people just shred all over the place, but never capture the feeling of the song or its subject matter. That was perfect.

[@theguitaristas]

Wow 😲 thanks man that's so incredibly kind and very much appreciated! ☺️🙏 I think have my moments from time to time but that must have been a very good day!! 😆👍

[@DANTHETUBEMAN]

@@theguitaristas it was a vary good solo, great sounds. great chops. you should record a that as a song with a full rythm behing it.

[@theguitaristas]

@@DANTHETUBEMAN Thanks Dan!

[@billkyle1056]

Really enjoy your reviews and your playing skills as well as your overall disposition. It sounds fabulous to me and for the money, I say outstanding.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Bill that’s appreciated! 😎👍

[@LocalMachine]

Another amazing review by The Guitaristas. Thanks for your thorough review!

[@moonatic2u]

Ordered mine straight from Joe's website since everyone else was sold out. After 2 weeks of playing and inspecting I am floored on the quality. I of course have Gibson's but really this is the best bonamassa I have played or owned. If we could have only had affordable guitars like this when I started in the 70's. Great review sir!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Mark, agreed... this is probably better than many 70s Gibson and Fenders let alone all the other crap that was around!

[@sqidvishus]

I am always thrilled to see a new video by you. Thank you for the really brilliant work as well as the outstanding production quality. It's a real joy to watch.

[@theguitaristas]

Thank you that's really appreciated!

[@PaulSter]

Terrific overview. Thank you! Really like the amount of detail. I'm diggin' the build quality, the thickness of the top, and even the veneer thickness. One piece neck?! Yes, that's a game changer for sure - as well as the long-tenon. Man! And I've mentioned before, my love of Burstbuckers. So I did the only thing I could think of - I ordered one! Your vid reinforced my purchase. 👌

[@theguitaristas]

Yeah nice one!... I think you will be very pleased let us know when it arrives!

[@PaulSter]

@@theguitaristas thanks, and I sure will. I'm also making sure I've got your bell ringing on your channel! Cheers from Austin, Texas

[@johndaugherty4127]

"Lazarus! Come forth!" Your jams go through my brain for days. Seriously.

[@paulcasilio1119]

"You know the story. I'm not gonna go into all that nonsense it's been covered by everybody. so...let's look at this guitar." God bless you, Sir, and may you live to be a thousand years old. Get right into it. LOVE IT!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Paul! 😆👍

[@gerry6075]

Love the " laid back" (with humor) easy tone of your videos. Great comment about buying it to play not invest. I ordered this guitar from the JB shop and UPS says delivery is Monday. Your positive honest review has me feeling good about this purchase. Thank you!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man think you will like it! 😎👍🎸

[@johnwhitehouse2582]

Brilliant down to earth honest review as ever , thanks for taking the time going through all there is about the guitar . Best review channel on the tube

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for the kind words John that’s appreciated! 😆👍

[@JP-jy7sk]

Just love your work. Your passion and geekery is clearly genuine. Keep up the great work and great playing. Cheers mate!

[@theguitaristas]

Ah thanks man that's really appreciated... and as you can tell it's truly a labour of love! :)

[@drabun1]

Love this channel. Was not expecting this review so quick but I'm glad you did. I'm getting this guitar for sure as I don't have a JB artist guitar yet and it will go nicely next to my Epi 59's and my Alex Lifeson Epiphone Les Paul. These are all incredible value for your money.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, agreed very good value... or not overpriced shall we say? You will have a great set then!!... now I need to try the Alex Lifeson Signature.

[@primordialone9053]

dark knight- Nice grouping! Did you get the Lazarus? I've been looking to get one of those three guitars you mention. Can you post a quick comparison between the three/two (necks, frets, feel, sound, and any other things that stand out to you)? Thanks!

[@cussy77]

Great review as usual what a fantastic looking les paul the top is stunning love the way your 100% honest no BS keep up the brilliant reviews take care Graham

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Graham that's appreciated! :)

[@MurphSA]

I was just thinking about your channel and this guitar and this popped up. Thank you so much!

[@boss351gt6]

I was waiting for this model. The colors that epiphone released the 59 in didn't appeal to me at all. I had a hunch there would be more colours on the way. Can't wait to get one

[@Trial212]

Another well done review!! Good job!! Despite having just gotten the 59 about 5 weeks ago, I could not resist when I found that I was 45 minutes away from a local Guitar Center who had a Larazus in stock!! It was the day after the release date. Well folks. I opened the case and there was a lovely well flamed slightly faded lemonburst Les Paul!! I plugged it into a Fender Blues Junior and was treated to an array of clean and driven tones!! I'd say that the pups on my Lazarus are a bit hotter than my 59's. Nothing to be upset about. I am very fond of both of them!!

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one!... definitely room for both isn’t there. 😎🎸👍

[@eharmicar]

THE BEST guitar vids. on KZbin,hands down!!!Thank You Sir,we’re not worthy.✌️

[@theguitaristas]

Wow steady on!... thanks man that's very very much appreciated, and I assure you that you most certainly are! 😎👍

[@AQMusic10]

Excellent review. I’m really enjoying your channel and your reviews. Keep up the great work.

[@theguitaristas]

Much appreciated!

[@briantherion5464]

I have a Epi 61 sg (white} with the BB 3 in the bridge and it sounds awesome! I love how it cuts with that excellent brightness. It is my first sg style guitar and I it blows away my 2019 Gibson traditional with the BB 1 in the bridge. Love the channel

[@edgesrockandroll]

I always take everyone's opinion as simply opinions .... I enjoy your videos as you appear genuine and authentic... Hard to find now... Thank you!!!

[@theguitaristas]

Thank you so much that's appreciated! 😊

[@daleturner3507]

Would love a shoot out between the Epi 59, the Lazarus and your Gibson! Think it would be interesting to see the comparison between them. Plus the difference in sound.

[@donge9589]

Thanks for this video, I'm leaning more towards this over the 59 as I do prefer the finish on this. It sounds fantastic, thanks for buying one and giving it a good analysis.

[@kenthhamner2641]

I think when Joe puts his name to something it's not crap but an affordable sub! Beautiful looking guitar.

[@johnwhitehouse4100]

Love your honest take on the guitar you review /own so no nodding to manufacture for a freebie . Now I have a totally need for this Epiphone

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers John, hope you can track one down! 👍😎

[@mickertyable]

Great playing and review. I think the finish of the 59 can be divisive but I love it. The cap on the Lazarus model is absolutely gorgeous. Epiphone are absolutely nailing all their guitars right now.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, yes some more great stuff from Epiphone on the horizon I think!

[@pttrent123]

I got my first Les Paul a couple of months ago, I got a Gibson Tribute. I went back and forth trying to decide whether to get a Gibson or an Epiphone, personally, I don't care for the Epiphone headstock. I am a Bonamassa fan, I have several of his CDs (I know not many people get CDs anymore, I have not made the jump to spotify or apple music). I have to say I enjoy Mark Knopfler more than I do Bonamassa, I just enjoy the slower tempo of his music more. Nice playing and nice review!

[@stephenchadwick1305]

I've had two epiphone standards the gibson tribute is better,wait till you've had it a year when it's bedded in great guitar,jobs has just produced Larry mcraes new CD it fantastic

[@pureblood3911]

I also am not a fan of the Epiphone headstock. I just sold one with slash pickups in it. Does that make me a Gibson snob…perhaps,but I’ve been playing long enough to know what I like…..🤘🏻

[@billsedge7360]

I watch all your reviews as you’re one of the very few I really trust, you tell it as is , good and bad , cheers

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Bill, that's appreciated!

[@jeremywooldridge5537]

Considered this one, just can't pull the trigger cuz its too similar to the '59 I already have. I got the exclusive aged southern fade finish from American Musical and am really happy with it. I just got the Slash LP last month and I really like that, neck is amazing. Unfortunately it looks like I'm passing on this one. Thanks for another great review!

[@jefftucker201]

Get in, was really hoping you would do a vid on this one mate! nice one. I almost pulled the trigger on one when they were released, really kicking myself for not doing it now!!! the only thing I do not like at all are the graphics on the case, yes stupid I know! lol Great vid!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Jeff, you could always try to sell the case on Reverb and end up worth a proper bargain! :)

[@ewal8556]

Some shops still have stock in

[@jefftucker201]

@@theguitaristas Damn, why didn't I think of that! great idea! :)

[@theguitaristas]

@@jefftucker201 You may even get a premium... start a trend for cases selling for $500 on their own? 😂

[@jefftucker201]

@@theguitaristas 😂😂😂

[@blockbuster3712]

Your videos are really high quality and I have been really enjoying them! They're what a proper guitar review should be - informative, to the point and with a good sound demo. Keep on rocking!🤘

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man that's very kind and much appreciated! :)

[@deanlaster1724]

I think the only way to get a strap is when you buy the Lazarus from Joe's website. Love your channel😊

[@nellayema2455]

2 years have flown by! This review still holds up, though. I do wish I had bought one, but really don't need one as I have the '59, however the look of the Lazarus model is spot on, IMO. It sure does look good!

[@theguitaristas]

It’s one I might regret selling a tiny bit… 🤷‍♂️

[@richardtownsend2150]

Love your honest no nonsense approach, thanks

[@richardlynch5632]

The nylon stockings test has to be done with regular nylon stockings... My wife (RIP) had both types... Regular because she could make runs in them for a punk look and runless type when going out to dinner with Grammy.😁 Perhaps McKnight can turn you on to his favorites...?😂 Not a humbucker fan... But that is a nice sounding and looking guitfiddle 😎👍 Looking forward to the Riviera breakdown 😎👍 Great video as usual 😉😎👍 😎👍❤🖖 Love Brother

[@theguitaristas]

😂👍

[@stevelankford7087]

Your channel is absolutely the coolest. It’s the stuff I think average Joe’s want to know when makin guitar purchases!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Steve thanks for kind words and support man!

[@williamhaddix809]

Love your videos and personality. Thank you for taking the time to make these videos and having a good attitude about everything.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers William that's appreciated!

[@sheltermemercury]

Wonderful review. I thoroughly enjoyed hearing your thought on the guitar.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Aaron!

[@sebastianhusche298]

Thanks for another awesome review. Really like how you dig into the details with measurements and all the things, your calm explanations and the nice atmosphere. Every review is like a story, a fairy tale on its own. Entertaining as well as informative. This is topped only by your tasteful playing which I love to listen and watch. Please continue to do so, I really enjoy it. Regarding this specific guitar: mine arrived yesterday. In perfectly playable condition and with perfect build quality, just lowered the bass side action a bit to my liking. I really liked the sound of the Epiphone 1959s in almost all videos but couldn't decide to hit the buy button yet. Until the Lazarus appeared in the stores. Same hardware, same guitar, just with a one-piece neck and nicer looking top. I can second all your statements you made in the video, even the bolder ones. It looks, sounds and plays brilliant. Craftmanship is exemplary, I saw many guitars of much higher price tiers that simply cannot compete with the Epiphone Lazarus. I also own a Gibson Les Paul Studio EB 2020 which I never really bonded with. It has some flaws in terms of build quality, the neck is sticky, the nitro shows some lack noses on the fretboards top edge, the neck pocket has some cosmetic issues. Not really major issues for me but it does just not feel as a Gibson product should feel in my eyes. When it comes to sound I generally like the Gibson 490/498 combination but it really sounds thin and hyper-modern compared to the Burstbuckers in the Lazarus, which sounds much fatter, richer and musical than the Gibson. Long story short: will sell the Gibson and keep the Lazarus as the Lazarus is simply the superior guitar over the Gibson.

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Sebastian, thanks for all the kind words and support... I keep saying this but it's really massively appreciated!! Glad you love this guitar too, Epiphone do keep surprising me with the quality and playability of their releases and this one is no exception... almost raise the bar?? Cheers man!

[@alanst.4417]

Second every word about the review! Wish I could say I have the Lazarus, too 😉

[@ingenuitymedia9434]

Well, I did it, I found and pulled trigger on one of these Lazarus '59s. and I absolutely LOVE it! Your review was spot on, and the guitar has not disappointed. Hopefully someday I'll have enough skill to justify owning this! Your reviews are awesome! Keep up the good work!

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one! and you already love it so it definitely belongs with you and will mature nicely along with your skills! 😎👍 Thanks for the kind words and support.

[@mrmetal1276]

@@theguitaristas looks a great quality guitar, trying to find one is not so easy. I have the Joe Bonamassa 2013 epiphine goldtop signature and thats a beauty chunk of wood. Great review 👏

[@rocketpoolpki]

Very cool guitar man. In about 50 years there will be a lot of barn finds.

[@Deric_Rocks]

@KZbin please promote this channel - it deserves to explode. Excellent dry English wit, sometimes self-deprecating. Excellent content, sets, lighting and production. Truly entertaining - keep up the great work this channel is fantastic! Ps. That R8 top is gorgeous!

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Deric, thanks man that’s really very much appreciated!! Something seems to be happening here so looks like the algorithm is starting to the hang of what we’re all about! 😎👍🎸

[@insagt220]

I truly loved this review sir! #1 because of you and #2 because of the guitar. I thank you for your time and effort.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for the kind words and support it’s really appreciated! 🙏😎

[@BNQueenan]

Great thorough review. And by all accounts an excellent Epiphone. I have one on order here in Australia, where unfortunately it is not released until next month. I agree that lack of artist branding it a bonus. I am not a great fan of artist branding on the instrument itself. And that has nothing to do with Joe Bonamassa. I have the same view with Slash branded guitars. I am buying the guitar because of its features, not because it is an artist model. It is a great version of the Epiphone 59. I looked at getting one previously, but didn’t really like the flat finish. I did like the Aged Honey but unfortunately it was was only available at Sweetwater (and couldn’t be shipped to Australia). I really like the maple top colour on this model. Indeed that is the main reason for me ordering one, along with the slight gloss, which I think is far more appealing than the flat finish on the original Epiphone 59’s. If money was no object I would get a Custom Shop 59 in Dirty Lemon - but this looks like an affordable alternative.

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Brendan, thanks for comment and support... hope you don’t have to wait too long man!

[@6speedsti241]

Really enjoy your reviews and delivery

[@thatscottishdude2058]

Your channel is one of the best , fresh of breath air channels I’ve seen for a long time

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man that’s really appreciated! 😎👍

[@thatscottishdude2058]

@@theguitaristas would be even better if I had typed it right lol , keep up the good work

[@jackhood4448]

Awesome! Glad you picked one up. I love the video and the guitar comparisons. Thank you!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man!

[@mblazer4004]

Your thoughts echo mine for the most part. My 59 neck was much slimmer than my lazarus. Not sure why, as you said your 59 neck was chunkier? This lazarus top is much more authentic. I sold my 59 and kept the lazarus and it will remain unless epiphone can top it again. The one pc neck is a gamer changer init? These are already increasing in value. Have a look at reverb now and a year from now. Love your videos and your personality. Keep em comin! And yes do that comparison video. Cheers mate…

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man that’s appreciated. I sometimes wonder if they change specs for different parts of the world but that doesn’t really make sense 🤔... more likely someone mixed up the parts bin! 😂

[@drgnslyr221]

I just ordered one. On backorder, but can't wait.

[@dougmccutcheon8570]

Walked into your review because I saw Joe B and nice looking guitar. Lovely relaxing presentation for a Saturday morning. Nice breakdown , nice playing , liked your honesty and the ethos of having fun. Thanks mate. Will subscribe.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Doug, thanks for the kind words and sub man... glad you found us!

[@michaelbaynham5107]

I've just ordered the '59 aged lemon burst from Andertons. It's essentially the Lazarus in all but name (and I think it has a 3 piece neck). I'm thinking very seriously about getting it modded with a push/pull phase switch. I'm interested to know what people think of this idea.

[@williamkyle6275]

Not unless you do the phase and parallel switching to try and get the Peter Green thing.

[@jensonbear]

Just ordered mine, should be here next week! Great in depth review and great playing at the end!

[@theguitaristas]

Excellent, nice one Darren! Thanks for the kind words and support it's appreciated! :)

[@vkelly1975]

Looks great I was looking at Joes original introduction to the Lazarus, and was intrigued with the case and so pleased they went the whole hog a great touch,

[@paulogden7765]

Outro playing you should drop tabs for I constantly get left wanting at jam nights and I'd love to blow the bloody doors off with playing like this. Love your channel man and I wish I knew more people like you I could sit down and learn from.

[@theguitaristas]

Ah Cheers Paul, thanks for the kind words it's really appreciated! 🙏😊 I'm just the same as you though... always critical of my own playing and wanting to be better and I don't doubt that others on your jam nights wish they had skills like yours. I think that's what makes our community so great, we are always keen to improve and learn from each other.... jam along with me next time! 👍👍

[@6speedsti241]

can not stop watching this video thanks so much i am told mine is coming ordered 4/22 your video made me order it

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, hope you don’t wait much longer!

[@6speedsti241]

@@theguitaristas SOON COME MY FRIEND

[@victorbeebe8372]

Aloha and Mahalo again. Very tempting. Already got the Epi 59 inspired by. Three of JB Epi models. I enjoy playing all of them. This one due to the construction would be a step. Looking forward to next video

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Victor, I think this is a step forward in the flaming and the neck so wonder if this means more to come along this line?... that could mean we will never stop buying the latest Epiphone Les Paul which I guess is the plan!

[@victorbeebe8372]

@@theguitaristas That the plan! I be nice if JB would have Epiphone make other styles of his guitar. I wonder if JB has a Byrdland? A 335 would be nice. I believe his model are better in quality

[@theguitaristas]

@@victorbeebe8372 I owned the JB polymist firebird for a while and it was excellent... I think you may be right about JB name meaning more attention to the quality.

[@Trial212]

@@victorbeebe8372 I'd give a left testicle for a Bonamassa Epiphone Byrdland!! Somehow I think that JB maybe, just maybe, doesn't own a Byrdland. Out of a collection of about 400 guitars, could that be possible?? :-) I agree wholeheartedly that his "Replica" guitars are of a higher quality.

[@victorbeebe8372]

The three version I got ate nice. I wish I realize this when he had the 335 or 355 released for his 3 kings tour. Epiphone just released the Lucille again. I just might have to get it! I hope Collin dors a review.

[@donthewatcher]

thanks for the excellent review, i get my Lazarus on Xmas eve via Fed Ex, From a Sam Ash dealer (NYC), and i hope they don't damage the guitar. I also Hope to Get A nice Lookin AAAA flame top, i love burstbuckers in an Epiphone, and top notch electronics, Epiphone stays in tune and sustains forever by the way Joe Bonamassa web site is selling 10 Lazarus Guitars 5 are special edition JB fretboards and 5 are regular Laurel fretboards. Guitar center hollywood, sold me one for $ 832.74 , but cant deliver until 5/10/2022 so when i get the other Lazarus , i will keep the best flame top of the 2

[@theguitaristas]

Great stuff... nice Xmas present for you! Thanks for the JB info I shall check that out. Have fun man! 😎👍

[@jerrybeilgard5824]

I just found your show. I'll be back. I have one on order. It's due in May. We'll see if Epiphone really does make another run. I hear there are only 2000 units total worldwide.

[@AshleyOffset]

Geez, Colin! Your playing in this one was legendary.

[@theguitaristas]

😊🙏

[@thomaswyatt199]

I have a 2015 gibson les paul traditional and the epiphone 1959 and the main differences I found are the neck widths on my 1959 at the nut its 42mm and at the 12th fret it's 52 vs 44mm and 55mm on the gibson. Overall body is thicker on the gibson really no big deal but I do find the gibson a bit harder to play on at the higher frets.

[@ac30lifestyle]

Moving forward with your production, could you get proper close ups inside the cavities to see the different woods, long tenon, the wiring? It seems a bit long distance to have a good ol’ geek. I really do enjoy your videos. My favourite infact

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Dean, thanks for comment. It’s a good point and I’m aware I need to do that... the only excuse really is that the production deadlines always make that extra bit of detail... retakes, etc, a bit of a luxury. But it’s a way I can improve so noted and I will make it happen one way or another!

[@gerry6075]

OK , was happy to see the UPS truck today delivering my Epi '59 "Lazarus" LP. I plugged it into my Fender twin amp and loved the awesome tones I got out of it. The only real problem I had was the neck pickup was very loose, had to tighten it up with a small Phillips screwdriver. The maple cap "tiger stripes" are visible but not as pronounced as on some others I've seen on videos. But I bought it for the sound & it suits my purpose very well. I paid $990. USD from the JB shop probably just in time as I've noticed some for sale on line for $1200_$1500. Don't know what walk in stores are charging. Really enjoying this !

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Gerry... did you get a strap too? Shame about that loose pickup that seems to be quite a common issue, albeit easily fixed. Enjoy! 😎👍🎸

[@gerry6075]

@@theguitaristas Yes , I did receive the strap. It was in the outer box not in the actual Epiphone box inside and fell out almost immediately upon opening . Check the bottom of the outer protective box if you still have it.

[@theguitaristas]

@@gerry6075 I think you only get that strap if you buy from the JB website... bonus! 😀

[@flowjoe100]

Would love to see more videos featuring this guitar. Such an interesting model

[@theguitaristas]

Coming soon... Cheers Joe!

[@thepartimemusician65]

Makes me want to buy a stash of Les Paul’s. Great review as always sir.

[@theguitaristas]

😆👍… I did!!

[@billybaru82]

Great review. Nicely put together and nice story. Really enjoyed the attention to detail. Liked and subscribed

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man that’s appreciated!

[@RG3EXFM1IBANEZ]

Sir first time watching and enjoyed the hell out of it, you Sir do a awesome job on your reviews and they should be happy having you across the pond, and I pulled the trigger on one of these, and now I can't wait to get her and play the hell out of it

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one!... thanks for the kind words, I hope you don’t have to wait long for your Lazarus! 😎👍🎸

[@RG3EXFM1IBANEZ]

@@theguitaristas well Sir I hope I don't as well, but I have a few I can play until it does arrive, my only wish would have been able to pick the one I want, so as to get a AWESOME top, I well if I can send a pic of mine when it arrives, I have a couple limited edition Epi's I love, a 1996 blue sparkle and a 2011 Gold Top, so the Lazarus will be in good company

[@RG3EXFM1IBANEZ]

Sir got my Lazarus and I am not disappointed one bit, I got luck and got a beautiful AAA top, only thing I see is what a couple other reviewer's have seen, the springs on the neck pickup, but that isn't breaking my heart, tonight will be a fun night

[@theguitaristas]

@@RG3EXFM1IBANEZ Hey that's brilliant!... thanks for letting us know brother have a great weekend! 😀👍🎸

[@TainFurrious1]

I've discovered your channel recently and I like your humble style very much. The production is very good as well as your chops! Keep it up sir!

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man that’s appreciated!

[@voyager7]

Another great, comprehensive review and demo!

[@Rem1Gnova]

That sounds absolutely gorgeous

[@ZacharyGalloway]

I ordered mine on the morning of the release 10 minutes after announcement from ZZounds and just got delivered a week ago. They posted the listing as backordered so must not have gotten any on launch. Luckily mine has a beautiful wide grain reverse chevron top closer to the real Lazarus than a lot of the examples I saw early. That did worry me as some looked like a plain tops or gold tops. Wish I was into my collecting addiction for the Norm Burst my favorite of his Les Paul models. Amos would be my number one but I have a few of the Korina Epiphones so close enough for now. Sadly nothing draws me to Black Beauty's so I passed on those new. Mine does have the thickest neck of all my Les Paul guitars and there all 2020 50's and my small hands love the 60's neck but somehow I don't own a 60's LP yet? But I also had all of the 2021 Slash models when they were released and they all got sent back for cosmetic and functional issues so these couldn't have ended up worse than those.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man... glad you finally got it and was worth the wait. Sounds like you have got this guitar addiction bad (or good 😜) now for signature Les Pauls! I still haven’t tried the slash ones yet... wondering if the neck is any different on that? Anyway good news is I’m sure we have plenty of new releases to look forward to next year! 😎👍

[@markmaioli4]

Great JB style playing on the outro and excellent review ... 🤘

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Mark!

[@relevantinformation6655]

I bought his epiphone Amos Flying V tribute when they came out. It is a good value for the money. Is it a Gibson Flying V, no, but enjoy the tribute to the original and all the case swag. I have around two-dozen guitars and it always depends on the individual guitar, rather than the line. Enjoy your channel immensely.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man!

[@HankMartin-ll4pi]

Great review again my friend guitarists will love it I’m sure.🎼🎵🎸

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Hank that’s appreciated!

[@robertdickinson889]

I have procrastinated for a bit and then decided to get one. None to be had. Finally I have found one on back order possibly last one I can get. It is a sell out I watched over 2 hours a business online sell all theirs and businesses close the back order book and remove all trace from their sites. If I get one that looks like yours Colin I will be happy. Might be next year before I find out. Worth the wait I think. But you have shown I plain really - a great guitar and worth a chance.

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Robert, wow sounds like these are proving popular then!... glad you managed to get one ordered and hopefully it will arrive sooner than you expect. Let us know! 😎👍🎸

[@robertdickinson889]

@@theguitaristas Will do. But I will not be trying any of Joe's ultra fast pentatonic runs!

[@theguitaristas]

Bet you can’t resist once it arrives! 😆👍

[@robertdickinson889]

Hi Colin. Happy New Year. I promised you I would keep you up to date with the Lazarus purchase. I have it, it just arrived. What a beautiful guitar. Deep intricate flame set up out the box more or less fine. Perfect. Thanks for offering your opinion on this guitar it helped me to compare and decide it was for me Regards Robert.

[@theguitaristas]

@@robertdickinson889 Excellent!... glad it finally arrived and was worth the wait 👍 I do think they did a really good job with these tops... very convincing! So you been laying down those pentatonic runs then?? 😆

[@Rico_B]

Another great in-depth, and a bit humorous look at what seems like another great offering from Epiphone. Interested in your thoughts on how this compares to your Epi 50s Standard GoldTop? Cheers from Sunny Arizona-please keep the reviews coming…

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, check last weeks Les Paul comparison... this one is not included but the very similar '59 is and pretty much same result!

[@orsettgreenboy]

Mainly because of your excellent review I ordered this guitar and thought I would have to wait months. But no, PMT delivered and it pretty quickly after all. It is a always a bit of a gamble buying online but Im so glad I did. This for me and its just own opinion, this guitar especially the neck feels more comfortable and suits me better than my PRS S2 which cost a whole lot more. So a massive thank you Col for your time in putting these reviews out. Cheers 👍👍🍺🍺

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one!... that's really good to hear, did you get a decent looking top?

[@orsettgreenboy]

@@theguitaristas yes not too shabby, not amazing but pretty good. Im loving the colour though, a orangey yellow, my favourite

[@rocktorrocks]

None of the reviews seem to do the flame top any justice, except yours. The top looks stunning here, didn’t care for it much until I watched your vid. Would love to give this a try if I find one. Enjoyed the video as always. Cheers!

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man that’s appreciated!

[@che2335]

Youve done the best Lazarus review Ive seen so far.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man that’s very kind! ☺️👍🎸

[@anthonymichael3029]

I’m so glad you got your hands on one of these! Just a quick question - what amp do you typically use for your guitar demos? Is it the Hot Rod Deluxe, it looks like?

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Anthony, I chop and change amps... always try to find one that's working for the guitar / my mood / my ears / the weather, etc.... tube amps cab be a fickle master! I always list what I ended up using in the demo in description box, and sometimes that will be different from the one in some of the shots because I changed it for whatever reason. My current faves are the Hot Rod Deluxe III, AC15, and sometimes the JCM900 (on half power). Cheers for comment and support!

[@jahbrake9791]

Wow amazing guitar! The finish and top are amazing! Not sure it would make me buy it over the standard 59 though... Great review as always but just one gripe.. Not enough of you playing the guitar. While I love your commentary I love your playing just as much. You play with passion and a level of finesse most reviewers just don't have. Give us just a little more playing m8 please 👍

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Jason, thanks man that's really appreciated!. The playing side of things frustrates me sometimes as it's the hardest thing to do to (to my own satisfaction) and the time pressure to deliver a film each week often means I just don't have enough time to find 'the zone' I'm looking for. This week is a good example... I'm kicking myself for not playing better, getting better tones, choice of songs etc. So I really appreciate the positive support I get from you lot and that is a massive boost to my confidence and will definitely try to get more playing in. Cheers! :)

[@stricknine8623]

@@theguitaristas I like your playing. It's generally the classic, working class type of style and the dirty tones aren't soo dirty or saturated and the character of the guitar's voice still comes through... This is an awesome Epiphone LP !!! Thankyou for your content !!!

[@theguitaristas]

@@stricknine8623 Thanks man that's appreciated!

[@jorgerusso8686]

Yo Colin after waching this for the umpteenth time .I decided to buy one but prices are higher on secondhand models.This now being 2023 I found out Andertons have the 1959 in lemonburst £749 told the wife nice birthday present bad move no no no more guitars.So I had a look on gumtree and came across a limited edition standard in amberburst 2004 Usung Korea managed to buy it for £220 fifties style body and neck Epiphone alnico pickups that sound warmer than the Probuckers on my 2014 standard with the horrible modern neck profile. Restrung and set up love it far superior build quality than the 2014.Have you ever considerd comparing a Gibson inspired with a 2000 era Korean,or maybe review the Epiphone Peter Frampton. Love the channel down to earth proper reviews

[@jorgerusso8686]

Thanks for reading and replying

[@davidbloom2373]

Beautiful guitar

[@swamification]

Excited to watch this on my big screen!

[@JayLand1973]

Best review I've seen so far

[@donalddemille5910]

Some mew ones just came back for sale and I bought one. Fingers crossed, this a big investment for me! thanks for the great review.

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one Donald!

[@tommywolf5693]

EXCELLENT EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!! Wonderful reviews!!!!!!!! The only way I could really notice the difference in the guitars the R8’s binding stands out more. Looks whiter, maybe it’s wider. THANK YOU for your posts and reviews!! I really enjoy them and trust your opinions!! And your humor also!! And playing!! I have one ordered. Thanks again!!

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Tommy, thanks for the very kind words and support man it's really appreciated!... hope you don't have to wait too long for your own Lazarus! :)

[@YOSTINATOR]

@The Guitaristas Awesome! The top on yours is VERY similar to mine. I love it. Enjoy!!

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one!... cool guitar eh?

[@YOSTINATOR]

@@theguitaristas Very much so! It is right at home with my Epi '59s in Aged Dark Burst & Aged Dark Cherry Burst!

[@YoloMcSwaggot]

I always liked the wide stripes better than the narrow ones. In my opinion the Epi Slash Appetite Burst would have looked a lot cooler with those veneers.

[@paulcatarino2209]

agree, at my local shop I had both in hand, the Slash Appetite didn't have any flame to it at all, just a slab of amber colored wood. This Lazarus top also makes me think of "greeny" , hope this doesn't stop Epiphone from issuing a Kirk Hammett version in the future.

[@kenthhamner2641]

Funny though the R8 lower horn is slimmer and the controls align differently but its only apparent side by side. John Nathan cordy did a vid on this model months after you and he liked it

[@dfwlistener7593]

Love the videos mate. Blimey! You're a great player don't put yourself down, or pay those cheeky blokes any mind.

[@theguitaristas]

😊🙏

[@bryancollins6796]

This dude is so British but that makes watching so more much fun. Great stuff mate. More please. Right then. Bye for now.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man... Cheerio! :)

[@user-tb9rw7dh2t]

I like the darker burnt orange 🍊 on the outer parts of your R8. It really brings the flame 🔥 definition out in detail. The Lazarus Epi has more of a lighter blanket tint over the top. Is the Epi HS pitch 14 or 17?

[@svetoslavslavov7215]

I have a 59's and the neck is very comfortable for me!

[@jeremymiller6933]

Another nice review! If I hadn't just bought my Epi R9 a few months back, I might give this guitar a harder look. I don't know if you remember me, but I had the Slash LP and R9 come in on the same day about 2 months ago. I kept them both! The Slash was actually made just a little bit better. I actually thought about exchanging the R9 for another one due to a few cosmetic issues (I think Epiphone rushed this particular one out the door a bit). However, stock being what it is right now, who knows when/if I would get the replacement (and if it would be any better), so I kept it. The joys of the mail order lottery!

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Jeremy, yes I remember!... I haven't played the Slash model yet but may need to add that to the little collection I am getting here. There have been s few suggestions that they take a little more care over the 'signature' models... may explain your experience?

[@jeremymiller6933]

Quite possible! I got the Slash LP from Sweetwater and was able to view actual pictures and weight of the guitar before purchasing and I think that really helped versus just getting something off the shelf sight-unseen from anyone between myself and the factory in China. I ordered the R9 from American Musical Supply due to an exclusive Southern Fade finish, which might be my favorite on the actual Gibson R9. Still, the sound from the pickups and pots are among the best I've ever played on any Les Paul, my Gibson's included. Epiphone really nailed that part. The pickups on the Slash are still not my favorite, but they do sound like Slash so I really can't legitimately gripe about it! Haha. I bought it for the look and feel as the neck profile is quite nice. I will swap the pickups later on. The neck pickup is for leads that will definitely give you that November Rain or Sweet Child sound. The bridge pickup is for crunchy rhythms that do give you that overdriven tube amp sound. It's a bit counter-intuitive at first. I'd play one at the local shop before buying if any are available. I've noticed that Epiphone has already raised the price on it, and a few other guitars, by $50 USD if you can find one. Another big reason why I jumped on it when I did. I doubt I would have any problem selling either one if I had to. At this rate of inflation, I might even make a few bucks.

[@shovington67]

I believe the Philip McKnight test is done with cheap stockings, mainly because they run easily, and give a better sense of the sharpness of the fret ends. You Sir, own quality undergarments !!!

[@theguitaristas]

Yes indeed I only wear the very finest hosiery! 😆👍