This ONE Spec SAVED the Guitar! | 2021 Epiphone Joe Bonamassa Lazarus Les Paul 1959 Reissue Review

[@electricworkshop4462]

This new JB ‘59 Les Paul is frickin amazing!! I can’t stop playing it🤩🤩 .the feel of the neck is amazing. Definitely has beef to it, but even I( a thin neck lover) can appreciate the awesome feel on the neck. Mine does NOT have the prettiest flame top,(looks more like a plain top), but the fretboard is nice and dark, and i slapped .9’s on it, and it’s pure butter.

[@justinswartz7994]

Received mine last week shipped from guitar center . Love this guitar. Sounds and plays great. I think it’s a great value and have to say Epiphone has really been putting out some great guitars over the past few years

[@SouvikRoyChowdhury]

hey justin is it made in USA or somewhere else?

[@strawsparky33]

@@SouvikRoyChowdhury trogly said in the video theyre made in china. The case is as well.

[@delnichols3929]

i purchased one in Jan 22 from someone flipping it on Reverb, still in packaging, he made $150 off of it, drove it down to Austin from Dallas for me. i never played it but briefly, i never had intentions to. I immediately drove it to the fellow that i take guitars for work. I landed on the specs too, just like Trogly, that neck. This was from the git go, planned to be a working girl. i have a couple of Pauls already (one owner original '77 Special DC TV yellow - me, and a 60th anniversary '59, a birthday present, yup at 60) i am blessed to have acquired a number of other very nice guitars too, so I will try not be snobby (i will never forget the trailer). But i don't like gigging with most of them, too important to me now, they DO walk off, esp. if you have several for one event. What i did then: The one playability thing was the frets, sharp and i didn't like the shape of them either. So i asked the tech to change the nut (I am a fan of real bone), replace the frets with REAL Gibson wire. then PLEK it. I then changed the harness (Throwbak with BB's), the Bridge and Tail (FaberUSA) and all the hardware around them, added Jimmy Wallce PAF's (he is in Garland, TX BTW), and all the plastic. Okay with regard to Trogly's commentary: yep frets suck, and the finish? not huge fan, it grows on you. i still think about seeing if I can have the top buffed out. the figuring on mine is better than the one in the video. My young nephew once asked for ketchup on a very nice prime rib, finish kind feels like that. but for banging it around maybe this finish is better? dunno, it sounds great, plays very great, others say they like it (I use either a 60's Fender Twin or Deluxe mostly), . So the moral dilemma, i am $2K into this thing, why? could have bought a 'real' Gibson ( i have real Gibson's)? i wanted something to work with, not be 'valuable', something exactly the way i wanted, and i got that. If it wasn't going to be my only guitar not sure i would have gone this way and i can't comment on the OEM config completely but it was great starting place, but anyway there ya go. It is not a custom shop, but it'll work 99% of the time. i do use the 60th in studio a bit...

[@danielbreaux1842]

The new frets and plek is over the top! Everything else seems reasonable to me. It takes very little to fix sharp frets! But..I bet it plays amazing. I would edge paint or stain it for a burst instead! 😂 Was the new wire slightly taller?

[@mikes062]

It’s an interesting story and actually quite similar to a story of my own Epiphone Les Paul Custom. I bought it in high school about 20 years ago and eventually sold it to a friend of mine and he spray painted it silver and just didn’t take good care of it. I then got it back cheap, with a broken tuner and a dead pick up, I ended up being able to scrape all the paint off because he didn’t prep the original paint and just painted over it. And I upgraded all the rest of the parts and transformed it, I love it and won’t get rid of it again.

[@carolinehaf21]

Man I love this story. I regret selling my original guitars (electric and acoustic) and I love that you were able to firstly get it back but also restore it! Labour of love ❤

[@mikes062]

@@carolinehaf21 yup, it was cool! Haven’t found my first acoustic yet though, wish I could.

[@proof377]

I received mine via UPS from Guitar Center. First thing I noticed was the neck pickup wasn’t mounted! Then I noticed the strings weren’t evenly spaced across the fretboard. Then I noticed the nut want connect and the three bass side strings were slotted in the nut, way off to the side. The three treble side strings were just hanging off the side where the nut used to be. THEN I noticed a crack on the neck near the head. Then I noticed the neck was broken. Other than that it was pretty. I took it straight to GC and they offered to replace it, via UPS. I had zero faith in that so I just got an Epiphone ES-335 off the wall.

[@jesse401]

I wouldn’t have anything expensive shipped in these next couple of months. No one cares if your package arrives in one piece they’re just trying to get through the work day.

[@tallpaul1020]

Seems like a nice guitar, But you definitely need to find and review a Bonabird. Banjo tuners, firebird headstock on a Les Paul, Trogly guitar heaven!!! Thx Trog🤘🎸

[@Jonathan_Doe_]

I got a feeling most Bonabirds will meet the same fate as the unsold firebird x models (getting destroyed under the tracks of an excavator)

[@SagaMediaNet]

The True bonabyrd was a fireburst finish with 1 pickup. Look up Slow Train

[@tallpaul1020]

@@SagaMediaNet it was a cool guitar too. Quite the prototype 👍

[@TheRustedShackleford]

I guess if you want to make LP tuning stability worse, put some banjo tuners on there 😆

[@tallpaul1020]

@@TheRustedShackleford looks good but you're not lying

[@dane4453]

I think this is an excellent guitar for the price which includes burst buckers. I do not have a problem with the satin top. I was skeptical, but it does not look bad at all. You have to temper your expectations based upon the price. . Sounds great through my Mesa Boogie Mark V 35 and Marshall. I get why someone would want to own a Gibson Les Paul Custom Shop VOS, but I would rather invest my $ in other things such as retirement. Besides, I am not playing in arenas nor recording songs. Lastly, I do like lemon tops and this guy Trogley comparing it and the top to the real JB Lazarus is not a fair or accurate comparison.

[@Anjohl]

I agree Dan, for all but the upper 1% of full time recording/touring musicians, these are more than enough guitar. I have heard of a lot of Gibson owners buying the equivalent Epi for club use! Keep the Gibsons for the studio!

[@joetheman74]

That's just Trogly being Trogly. I'm not his personal friend or anything but I've been watching him since his early days on KZbin. Trogly will often blurt out his own unfiltered wants, desires, disappointments before then coming afterwards with a more tempered and thought out response. If you listened carefully after expressing his disappointment in the top he then said he understands why and expresses reasons you don't get a top like Lazarus on a less expensive Epiphone. Think along the lines of a kid not getting EXACTLY what they wanted for their birthday but then the more they look at it they understand why and respect and appreciate it. Trogly actually really loved this Epiphone and had mostly positive things to say about it. He is a good guy and probably the most honest guitar dealer you'll ever find. Honest ALMOST to a fault.

[@holstorrsceadus1990]

Good old Joe. Selling Epiphone copies of his old 59s so he can buy a new 59s. What a life.

[@NotDingse]

Doesn’t he already have like all of them

[@petevadelnieks]

Cannot stand him.

[@charlesbolton8471]

@@NotDingse Not yet, but it does seem like that is his life goal.

[@chesneytube1]

Then make a copy of that and buy another until someone stops him

[@quegioh4130]

Haters lol

[@Mad_Dawg1230]

on October 16, I went to the Smart Financial Center to see Joe Bonamassa's concert. It was an AMAZING performance ( not even his best ;) ) and when he named off everyone in the band, I found out that his keys player is the legendary Reese Wynans, who played for Stevie Ray Vaughan and is hands down my favorite keys players, and in my opinion, the best blues organist.

[@midniterollercoaster]

Got one in the shop and the neck pickup was also unscrewed and loose. But weirdly it had "aged nickel" hardware and pickups? they had some obvious pitting and the epiphone website says specs are subject to change.

[@ViperSRT1008]

I actually got this when I saw it was released. I love the story of Lazarus Joe tells and I have not owned an Epiphone since my Blue quilt top back in the early 2000s so I got this, not only because I like Joe and the story of the real guitar, but also as a commemoration of where I have been in the past after playing for 20 years now! I was absolutely blown away by this guitar! Maybe because I was expecting something far worse than it is, but I love playing it as much as my Gibson Les Pauls. I do agree I wish the top was more like the real guitar, but for what it is I am very happy with it. It weighs a ton though so anyone looking to order one make sure you get a good quality wide strap!

[@trader307]

true that this is a heavy one! but nice

[@paulcatarino2209]

Have it, love it. Totally agree with you this is the multi tool of guitars, its a greeny Lazarus with an appetite for destruction. But I still hold out some hope Gibson will let Epiphones new "custom shop" release a relic/road worn version of Kirk Hammett greeny.

[@yannick2047]

I recently got one of these. It plays and sound absolutely great! Quite a bright sounding Les Paul, in my opinion, which is a nice change compared to the other LPs I have in my collection. I understand the criticism concerning the fact that a high gloss finish would make the top of the guitar look nicer. However, concerning the rest of the guitar, I.e. the back of the body and the neck, I actually prefer the finish the way is is right now. Especially on the back of the neck, the playing-feel of this finish is just great. Overall the whole neck profile feels amazing, it’s a bit chunky but not overly so. So: in the end, this is still a China burst, don‘t get me wrong. But it is maybe one of the most well built and spec‘ed out China Bursts I ever put my hands on.

[@Bliggick]

"Another Thing nice about this JB model - his name is nowhere on this." Haha. Another guitar Joe would never think of touching except for the promo video.

[@etucc8]

So messed up lmao.

[@thenameless3271]

Awesome, for a time he had those guitars with his name inlayed on the fretboard. I'm not sure why anyone would want that.

[@PaulSter]

@@thenameless3271 can you imagine if you had SRVs custom Strat that has his name on the fretboard? Think about that for a moment.

[@SuperTrojan2]

@@PaulSter that was Stevie’s guitar, there’s only a few maybe that exist. The joe b ones are a production. No one wants a mass produced epiphone with his name on the fretboard. Think about that for a moment.

[@PaulSter]

Well c'mon now - Why would he need to? Seriously. While I do happen to have enough cash to buy a '59 (and that's not meant to boast, just to make my point), that's not how I choose to spend or invest my money. For for the regular person, it's a very well spec'd guitar that will likely have a nice resale, or simply be their' forever 'Les Paul. And...if they stop making them, they'll likely appreciate - as they already have. I just hope people quit flipping them to make a buck, thereby defeating the purpose of the guitar altogether.

[@bobsboltonstuff4212]

Had my lazzrus for just over a year. I am so pleased with it. Pretty much as you said qualify everything by the price and the look, the feel, the sound and the spec are all better than or as good as you could expect. If someone such as yourself, who has handled some Pretty amazing guitars, can even be mildly won over, it says a lot for a very affordable guitar. I'm still going to get a gibson though, I just haven’t dared play one yet.

[@christopherpaluck737]

Received mine this week. Replaced strings, adjusted the truss rod and polished the frets. It plays better than the 5 Gibsons I've owned in the past...including the Custom Shop model.

[@milanovicr]

I've got mine 3 months ago, here in Shanghai. It's a blast!! I actually have opportunity to play and check it in local music store. I tried Gibson and was ready to pay for it but Lazarus saved my money and in my opinion it plays better. About the finish... it's not satin like 1959 reissue, it's not fully gloss and for sure it's not lemon burst. It has that aged nice top. The absolute winner is the neck. Amazingly playable!

[@Jerac-X]

I agree on the gloss. I think if there was a full gloss finish the top would probably pop more and look a little bit more like the actual Lazarus. One other thing that always gets to me is that the Epiphone 59's and this Lazarus don't have the finish scraping on the top to expose the binding! The color goes all the way to the edge and you lose that beautiful "framing" effect that is essential to the LP. It just feels like a cheap shortcut.

[@Sharpened_Spoon]

I'm not even much a fan of LPs but still enjoy your channel and personality. Super relaxing to wind down to in the evening.

[@Xaltar_]

These polish up easily enough if you prefer a full gloss finish. Personally I would buff just the top and get a nice shine more like the actual Lazarus. It should also help the veneer pop a bit better. I like the bit about veneer vs full flame top, the simple truth (which hurts too much for many to admit) is that a good, properly applied veneer won't change the tone and like Trogly said, it will allow for many more guitars to be made with a beautiful top. The reason people tend to frown on veneer tops is because quite a few guitars advertised as "veneer" were actually "photo flame" a while back, which is not remotely the same thing. The other issue is that cheaper guitars tend to use a very thin veneer, typically 1mm - 1.5mm. A 2.5 - 4mm veneer looks every bit as good as a full flame/quilt/curly etc top. It does look a bit off though, no matter how thick it is. You may be able to get the depth and play of a full cap but the veneer is a flat sheet that conforms to existing topography vs a full cap which changes in it's direction, elevation and effect because it is carved not overlaid more or less flat. This is why veneer tops that are not carved (flat) look so much better. Curving/conforming veneer tends to weaken it's active nature (the way the color shifts at different angles). Anyone who has worked with figured wood and veneer can tell you that something is often lost when you warp/conform veneer away from it's resting shape and this gets worse the thinner the veneer. Personally, I prefer the look of a full carved top but I wouldn't pay more for it, the veneer will hold up well enough at a distance and really doesn't change the tone in any meaningful way. Epiphone typically uses 1 - 2mm thick veneers, not thick enough to get the full active look you find on a full figured top, it tends to be a little flat/2 dimensional. I wish Gibson would make some veneer top guitars with 3 - 4mm AAAA figured veneer. It would be fantastic on Studio/Tribute models and save them some money (and hopefully the end user too). Sadly the Gibson snobs will probably deride such notions.

[@AlecBridges]

Are they good online resources that would show how to add gloss finish to one of these? I have one shipping to me now and want to gloss that sucker up!

[@dylanzrim3635]

PRS has monopoly on the good figured maple, literally purchased active maple groves. He says figured maple is quite easy to grow, all you need to do is restrict its growth for a number of years, then give it freedom.

[@banditkeithkingofduelmonsters]

How do you buy a grove of figured maple trees? Aren't they 1 in 100 trees or is it 1 in 1000?

[@TheChicagoTodd]

@@banditkeithkingofduelmonsters I think what Dylan was saying, which is interesting and I didn't know, is that by altering the trees environment, you can force it to have figuring. Very interesting, never heard that before.

[@pulaski1]

@@TheChicagoTodd If you can it would be interesting, but only useful for making guitars 100+ years in the future. So even if PRS got into "farming" figured maple soon after starting making guitars, it will be over 50 years before any such maple becomes available.

[@PaulieHo]

@@pulaski1 if they bought the grove, presumably that includes previously planted trees

[@pulaski1]

@@PaulieHo And presumes that the original/ previous owner was interested in forcing maples to develop figuring.

[@ilovejapanesemusic3858]

Well I was going to watch this video but one spec killed it for me! Never heard a Joe bonamassa before and it would appear they've never heard of left-handed players before.

[@hkguitar1984]

I would like to see Trogly (Austin) have a sit-down with Joe Bonamassa. It would be a total nerd-fest of all things guitars.

[@mikep.lipinsky7654]

Trogoly is a dope lol joe wouldn't even have a coffee with the guy . Joe is getting paid to promote these shitty cheap guitars he could care less. If kids will work a lil harder they can afford a Real Gibson

[@freddieblue6351]

We luv Mr Trogly!!! There are good used and tribute Gibson guitars out there to be had for sure I play a blue Gibson Les Paul Junior Tribute by choice and it has nothing to do with money, I prefer it.

[@electroKrunch]

JB does a great service to keeping guitar alive in this age of synth & copy/paste tracks. Joe plays and its not canned.... I dig Joe for this!! Put out honest music, back honest products... I hope that never wains.....

[@ddavismusic2176]

I just got mine today and I really am impressed with this guitar overall !!! It really blew the Slash model away ! I really like the yellow, it looks good to me ! The neck feels great, I like the fatter feel ! the only thing I want to change is the pickup springs in the neck pickup as you pointed out ! I'm a stay at home player and I run it through a Fender Mustang amp and I couldn't be happier with the sound !! For the money it's a great guitar (well I just traded for mine lol} !!!

[@ericbgordon1575]

Lazarus actually reminds me of what I was searching for leading into January 2013 an amber-finished Epiphone LP. Would have been the next best thing to having a guitar I've got today, a gold top. Instead, I wound up getting a different model that I had been searching for searching for, a tobacco sunburst LP.

[@robroymenzies8641]

I ended up buying 3 of these, 1 for me and 2 for customers, all from Epiphone's website. ALL 3 had the exact pickup screw/spring issue yours had, and two of them had bad switches! I got the impression they rushed these out the door with that kind of QC. They were easy fixes & everything else was fine. Mine actually has decent wide flame. Excellent Les Paul copy!

[@robarbone]

I got this because I am a fan of JB and I love the Lazarus story. I did have the nut replaced with a bone nut and I was getting some fret buzz that wasn't truss related so I had the frets leveled, too. I put on Kluson locking tuners, as well. I woulnd't do that to my R9s but here it seemed appropriate. Overall a pretty solid guitar for an Epiphone.

[@ZacharyGalloway]

Ordered mine on ZZounds within 10 minutes of release after watching the first Andertons playing demo. Listed as backordered and just got mine last week. Was worried as a lot of them looked like plain tops and gold tops from a distance. Luckily mine had the wide grain and a reverse chevron so it looks a lot closer to the real Lazarus. Still not 100% pumped on it though all my 2020 Epiphone's were awesome with zero issues. I ordered all of the Slash models and they all got sent back from damage or cosmetic issues but they all let me down either way. Even my Gibson 2021 50's AAA flame limited edition I ordered for my first Gibson LP showed up with the best top I've seen but had a bunch of nibs hacked off and cut binding around the horn though the finish and chipped and had a twisted neck. So my theory is with the world issues with so many people quitting there jobs and no one wanting to work anymore all the experienced luthiers are gone and there's a fresh batch of new workers making guitars now with a loose QC department. Starting to lose faith at this point. P.S. almost all of my 21 Epiphones came with the neck pickup just sitting in the cavity no screwed in at all.

[@stephenlittle7769]

You should review the new Epiphone Lucille guitar.

[@allisonholmesmusic97]

Yes!

[@craiggallagher7292]

I want one. I am angry I missed JB's Black Beauty, so maybe the Lucille would be cool. Anyone own one that can vouch for the $$.

[@cigdamagelungs]

I gots both and amos to

[@simonnotthepieman1581]

Graphtech offer Nubone and Tusq. Tusq is the better of the two, if a guitar manufacturer is saying 'graphtech' they're probably using Nubone. If they're using Tusq they'd say so as it's Graphtech's better product. I have tusq on pretty much all my guitars now. Adding tusq saddles with a nut takes it up a notch. The saddles are lovely, so comfy under your hand and gives an extra glassy tone when used with a nut too

[@craiggallagher7292]

I pretty much go Woolly Mammoth or Triceratops for my bone nut, other than that, I like the Nylabone, which I like to carve out of my dog's spent toys.

[@Win7ermu7e]

@@craiggallagher7292 If you don't go with Megalodon tooth it's pretty much ghetto and you will get crap tone.

[@craiggallagher7292]

@@Win7ermu7e Are you serious, Clark?

[@BXGuitars]

Fragile near the headstock makes this the most accurate case ever made. :)

[@benedekgabor.]

Fragile... Hmmm. Must be Italian

[@ZPDSurvival]

Rochester NY, Joe was 10 years old and blew our minds at a downtown concert. Never realized he would get to this level. Intense.

[@scottbogfoot]

Nice! I got mine last Saturday. I was hoping to hear your stance.1:05 '13 or '12 he also had a goldtop I believe. Your top is, not boring but pin strippy, mine the flame dips like a wave at the center line. Bookmatched of course so like a mustache I guess 😄 none of them look like the real flamed one but some look wider than others.

[@davegreeley]

I expect mine Thursday and the custom inlay fret board of only 300. I hope it gains in value. I had a beautiful Gibson and when I had to let it go, I lost on it.

[@Ycjedi]

2014 was Pelham Blue. The black back Gold Top was the release before that.

[@scottbogfoot]

@@Ycjedi yeah I wasn't that sure about the year but something made me think they were at the same time. I made a correction. I could look it up but I'll take your word on it being a different year, makes more sense that way. Cheers 😃

[@scottbogfoot]

@@davegreeley nice, do it come with the extra case candy, strap, picks,ect ? I never intened to sell any of my guitars. The inlay ones are kinda cool. 😃Cheers .

[@davegreeley]

@@scottbogfoot I actually hope a little more as I ordered it right from Joe's store and usually get a sticker and pic's. We will see by end of week as it is supposed to be delivered tomorrow.

[@Almost_Baked]

He has 3 locations, Nashville, NYC and LA. I can only imagine the totality of his entire collection.

[@Telecastersanonymous]

I just want to sniff house tweed collection

[@USMarine75]

Absolutely love mine. It’s the most Gibson looking and sounding guitar I’ve ever played that’s not a Gibson. I think it actually sounds better than my 2014 Gibson Custom Shop Custom. Maybe I got a good one. Don’t know. But I have the Slash Anaconda, Black Beauty, Lifeson, Tommy Thayer LP and Explorer… as well as Gibsons, Collings, PRS, etc. And this through my Marshall sounds the most like a great LP. It’s boring looking tho. Yup. Welcome to Gibson lol. I’ll hang my Private Stocks since they’re more wall art than tone 😂.

[@g.koch.]

Send me one, I free you from the burden.

[@vincenzomigliore9749]

I have a Gibson LP studio, would I be wasting my money on this? I’m torn between this and the Gibson unburst standard, which is 3x the price.

[@USMarine75]

@@vincenzomigliore9749 unfortunately they’re no longer made they were a 2021 limited edition. I think the Andertons LE ‘59 Aged Lemon Burst or Dark Cherry Burst are the closest to the Lazarus specs.

[@joshuabarbour5278]

That one sounds really good. I think I could look past any flaws and just play the crap outta that one.

[@fuechse7848]

About people struggling to get a low end gibson or a high end epiphone, I own an epiphone 1959 reissue and have played gibson les paul standards. Different models have had different feels, but my epiphone has a feel that feels nothing like a midrange Epiphone. It has a magic that is just as on par as the gibson standards I‘ve played. And as a surprise to no one, some of them have a lot more cosmetic defects than my epiphone. I‘m not the biggest fan of the special type of finish they put on it, just cause I like full gloss, but I have to admit I think that‘s where the magic comes from. The finish is very thin and feels really nice, it makes me feel warm when I pick it up. And the guitar, in my experience, looks a lot better in person than the images on epi‘s website, or Sweetwater, etc. I have played 2500 dollar gibsons that felt better to play, but I‘ve also played ones that felt much worse. It has gibson burstbuckers, cts pots, switchcraft, so there is no doubt in my mind that it is leaps and bounds a better choice than a low end gibson, unless you care about the headstock that much. (By the way I‘m just talking about this specific model. In my experience, normal epi customs, and especially the stabdards don‘t feel anywhere near as nice as this 1959 or a gibson)

[@fuechse7848]

8:29 the case that came with my 1959 epiphone has gotten MUCH darker, and it‘s only been used since july.

[@1777DK]

This really need to stop. Turning your pick up upside down will not create an “out-of-phase sound”, the phase in this case is the lead wire and refers to the way the pickup is wound. Out of phase would mean to switch the hot and ground, on one pickup, if circumstances are right, like phase switching on a mixing desk. If you only turn the pickup around, the hot and ground stays the same, and in the case of a humbucker, you already have two magnets with reverse windings, so you are not changing anything, except the magnet’s position. Some people will probably claim, that this makes all the difference sonically, and is the only reason for Gary Moore’s success, but even if someone has the set of ears to hear a difference, what they are hearing is not out-of-phase. I would suggest you spend the hour it takes to make the switch, to practice scales, as this will be much more beneficial musically.

[@tommybowling6234]

He said turn the pick up around and flip the magnet... Listen before you talk shit!!!

[@1777DK]

@@tommybowling6234 Am I the one talking shit right here? You don’t just “flip” the magnet, in a guitar pickup, and reverse the polarity. I strongly believe that he thinks turning the pickup is equivalent to flipping the magnet, by what he said. Besides, “flipping” the magnet, as in north/south polarity, will only get you half way there anyway. So no matter if he meant one thing or the other, it still won’t get you “out-of-phase” or phase cancelling tone in this case. It’s way more complicated and my OP is not even covering the whole matter.

[@colinmcnab6145]

Turning the pickup round makes no difference to the tone. On Greens guitar the magnet was accidentally replace the wrong way round during a repair so making it out of phase with the bridge pickup.

[@1777DK]

@@colinmcnab6145 I have also heard that. But still, turning a magnet around on a pickup requires quite a bit of effort, dependent on the particular construction, in some cases it would even require complete disassembly, so it would still a rather unusual scenario.

[@clarkbabin9799]

Not sure of all the specs on my Epiphone Traditional Pro III but the frets are smooth on the edges. Of course it has Episode Pro Alnico Classic vintage humbuckers that are both split coils. And looks to be 3 piece neck with scarf joint. And the back is a waxed mahogany finish. Didn't come with COA or a case and was on display for awhile since GC was clearing out all displays I got this one at an already discounted price and another 40% off since they sold the original one I ordered out from under me and it was well past shipping date. I think I got a great deal on it. The JB your reviewing looks good with that red back and honey top. The back kind of reminds me of an SG color but looks great against the top.

[@luker9512]

Had no issues with mine at all, Great specs and an awesome guitar!!!

[@anotherstart1]

I have this and it’s better ( playing) than a 2020 standard and a 2021 classic. I was really baffled as I usually HATE Epiphone but this and the Tommy Thayer model really made me 🤔. The Gibson’s are not $1500 better sounding or playing guitar. It’s a matter of choice and 💰 and if your a Snob brand person ( I was but no more)

[@zerolatitude2923]

F San, I am with you. I sold my Gibson LPJR SP and bought the 59 and a Fender Blues JR with enough money left over for a case of whiskey. :-) Solid upgrade all around.

[@jimmyjames2022]

"Lazarus" comes with same specs as the recent "59 Standard Outfit", but with a third top option, the "Lazarus finish" which I think looks nicer than the Dark Burst/Dark Cherry. Not a fan of the blood red stain Epi likes to use on LP backs and necks, and with this top it looks hideous.

[@boss351gt6]

The finish and the one piece neck are the two differences.

[@jesse401]

Once I got a goldtop I thought the same thing about the red stain. Can’t stand it now

[@jbarnhart2653]

I would say that Trogly got a "lemon" top on this one...not in a good way. I've seen nothing but better figured ones, including one I could buy tomorrow...it's just 10 blocks from my house.

[@markdouglas8073]

Don’t forget that pink fur case!

[@mburtondavis]

I love love the pink! I wonder how it stacks up against a tribute. like does the extra $400 just pay for a Gibson logo.

[@riadmiah3342]

I came across this guitar at my local guitar store the week it came out. I like JB and was looking forward to this but after I picked it up and felt the finish I passed on it. It felt artificial. My store did have a Gibson Kirk Douglas signature SG which I purchased immediately after playing it and watching your review. I hope you review the Kirk Fletcher 335 when it comes out!

[@jgenoese]

Can’t believe you found a Captain Kirk. What color?

[@riadmiah3342]

@@jgenoese I got lucky, it is the Inverness Green

[@hkguitar1984]

I agree about the finish. I've a couple older Gibsons and Fenders, after having those to play I realized I really prefer the lacquer finish. One reason is the feel, the other reason is the wear. I've a 1986 Les Paul that looks great with all the honest wear. I've also a 2000 American Deluxe Stratocaster I purchased new. It still looks brand new after all these years. Within my small collection of guitars I use and play the Fender looks out of place with its new looking thick urethane finish while everything else is obviously heavily played in.

[@jgenoese]

@@willsei it’s an amazing guitar. Would have loved an ebony board but I’m picky.

[@USMarine75]

Fair enough but that guitar is 3x as expensive lol. For an Epiphone IMO this thing is a home run. I prefer it to my actual Gibsons lol. But I’d take that KD SG over it too! 😉

[@JokersWild70]

BTW, I'm 50 (51 next month) and one of the very few guys my age or younger who even know who in the hell Peter Green is. Sure, many people know about "Greenie" due to Kirk Hammett, and to a lesser extent, Gary Moore, but Peter Green? Nope. Sad, because I knew who Clapton, Page, Beck, Blackmore, Richards, Brian Jones and many others were when I was 12 or 13. I even knew about a few of the old bluesmen as well. I'd find a band like, say, AC/DC (who I love) and read interviews with them talking about Chuck Berry and Bo Diddley, and it would make me "well, who are THOSE guys?" which lead to digging back into 50's era rock, blues, and country, then either going forward to Buddy Holly and the Crickets, or even further backwards to Son House, Robert Johnson, BB King, etc. I found out about Clapton when Eddie Van Halen would talk about Eric being a huge influence, so then it's oh, Clapton was in a band called Cream, let's check them out. Wow, this is great! Clapton was in a band called The Yardbirds too? What's that all about, and who are these Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page characters who took his place? Don't people do that anymore?

[@steveg.3022]

I do that, but I’m 65. Still, when I was listening to Cream and Zeppelin when they came out I had no idea who Willie Dixon was or who Robert Johnson was. I eventually found out there is a lot of great music out there. Shortly after that disco took over, which made me dive even deeper into the roots and the classics.

[@daveeckers3222]

Already on reverb for 1300. I’m very happy with mine so far

[@davegreeley]

1900 on reverb Canada

[@Dan.Solo.Chicago]

Man, Trogly does not miss a beat. Everything I was thinking as I watched the video, Trogly addressed.

[@vote4chapman]

"somewhere between gloss and satin..." - SEMI-GLOSS

[@craig6198]

SEMI-SATIN

[@erichjespet6492]

Glatin

[@dampwookie]

Sloss?

[@ronsheehan]

The on,y way they could have duplicated the original flame would be a fender ish “photo flame”. Better to go with a lesser real wood veneer,in my opinion

[@TheChicagoTodd]

This is true....in one sense....in trying to replicate "Lazarus".....there was an inherent fault in the fact that no guitar will look exactly like "Lazarus"; unless like you said, the "faked" the flame. So in that sense, maybe a planning or design flaw. I think they realized that, but thought they could still do a cool job, and I think they succeeded.

[@carolinehaf21]

Agree... I hate the photo flame look, even though this has a dull look, at least it's a real veneer. The photo flame is just too perfect that your brain knows it's fake

[@ronsheehan]

@@dundun8640 really? How could you duplicate wood grain patterns across an entire production run? If that's possible, I'd be interested in hearing you explain the process

[@fernandoreynaaguilar1438]

I will never ever dismiss , dislike or make fun of any Epiphone Bonamassa... it is the only way I have (for the moment) to get my hands on a "vintage Gibson"! Think about it.

[@freddieblue6351]

Yes indeed

[@TheJeffcurran]

I have this one. I got it last week. I also have the 59 "Outfit", the Slash AFD, and the JJN Gold Glory. For under $1000 they're all really good guitars. And I have many Gibsons. As for the Lazarus, the dealers that stock them don't show you what you're getting, so when it comes to the "quality" of the top, it's luck of the draw. I have a few friends that got a better top than I did. That was a disappointment for me because the whole story behind this guitar is the amazing top that was discovered under that candy apple red refinish. Veneer is cheap. They could have done a better job at selecting the best veneers. I don't know that I agree about the one piece neck being superior. There's nothing wrong with a scarf joint. In fact it's probably superior because it has been "pre-broken". I'm willing to bet that if I took my 59 and my Laz and dropped them on the floor from the same spot, the Laz would break and the 59 would not. I've already seen a few Laz guitars with snapped headstocks. The finish on the Slash is way better than both the 59 and the Laz. The finish on the Laz is a little bit nicer than the 59.

[@Ninjametal]

The odds of one piece of wood having the same resonant peak frequency for sustain are higher than for multiple pieces of wood (often from different lumber/trees) with glue binding the pieces. ...So, tonally; one piece is often "better" for sustain. However, I'd choose the 15% strength increase over 2% more sustain in an Epi.

[@greenmanalishi6963]

with compound polish, and little rubbing can make the finish glossy with little work involved.

[@TheJeffcurran]

@@greenmanalishi6963 I polished the JJN Gold Glory by hand using Turtle Wax Clean Cut rubbing compound followed by some Virtuoso cleaner and polish. It came out pretty shiny but still had orange peel. It needs to be done with a random orbital machine polisher if you want to get rid of the orange peel. I'm not a big fan of the "faded" Epi polyurethane finishes. The high gloss finish on the Epi Slash guitars is really nice.

[@greenmanalishi6963]

@@TheJeffcurran hmm good to know thanks, n yeah I’ve seen on videos concerning the “orange peel” part, haven’t done it to my “Lazarus” soon to be “greeny” quite yet. So gather all the knowledge will help. Thanks

[@SilverTurtleZ28]

For the price, it's a good guitar. I, too, wish they had gone with a gloss finish instead of the odd semi-satin top.

[@jasonmyers7410]

The top can easily be cut and buffed out. It would look a lot better with a shine.

[@IGrocker]

The finish is a satin finish. Flat finishes have essentially no reflection, satin has some shine to it (like this guitar), and gloss has the full shine to it. At least, this is how we refer to it in the automotive world.

[@agustinvidal99]

beautiful guitar

[@ravenheart1439]

JB's EPI and Alex Lifeson EPI are both outstanding and both play em on stage at times ..Alex says his is perfect out the box and was shocked how good it actually was..EPI have really stepped it up, so much so I'm considering one and I'm a PRS guy..that says ALOT to anyone that knows me...great review man..

[@robertthompson6302]

I’ve had my 59 ( epi like this one) for a few months now… I think they are a good, solid guitar. Even though the electronics are spec’d out to be CTS etc, they still sound like there is a blanket over the speaker compared to my gibsons w humbuckers. I changed the tailpiece to a lightweight one and I think that helped… But when I get the opportunity, I’ll probably buy a dr. Vintage harness and replace the electronics. I like the guitar enough to do that. It has a focus and clarity I like, but I think it will sound even better w new pots and wiring. I feels very solid and reliable. Yes I know it’s not a Gibson, but it’s fun to have a ‘better’ Epiphone, because most I’ve played were just not right until I bought the 59 reissue. It feels like they tried hard to make a playable guitar with this run.

[@maekong2010]

I have a question, Robert. Is the neck break-angle still slightly less dramatic on the Epiphone, as compared to the Gibson?

[@maekong2010]

@@AuntAlnico4 I'm sorry, but that makes no sense. The only available possibilities are, the same or less drastic. What do you mean, exactly?

[@USTTRM]

It’s less dramatic. 14 degrees vs 17 degree angle.

[@maekong2010]

​@@USTTRM That is the answer I was expecting and hoping for. It would have seemed improbable for Epiphone to zero in on Gibson's only true weakness - but plausible, considering the degree of authenticity they appear to be pursuing. Thanks, my friend. Everyone overlooks this in the reviews. When it comes to suicidal headstocks, a few degrees still seem to matter.

[@robertthompson6302]

Headstock is slightly less of an angle. I think there is definitely a market for this style of guitar out there; first time ‘Les Paul’ style guitar owners and folks who have owned an expensive Les Paul and want that sound and feel, but can’t afford the extra cash it would take for a Gibson. I really believe if a great guitar player needed an instrument to gig with and didn’t have a few thousand to spare, the 59 reissues are a solid alternative to the Gibson. Joe B makes a bit putting his name on guitars for sure, but he is one of the only folks in his age range that is keeping classic rock alive; more power to him. People love to hate, but I like that he’s taken that ambassador role… He’s kind of the ‘king of collectors’. You can tell he just really loves the Gibsons. Let’s face it, the custom shop guitars are just too expensive now. Doctors and lawyers only. This gives you something to play until your ship comes in;) if you want to spend 10 grand on a shiny piece of wood, go for it!

[@sublyme2157]

Curious as to why a one piece neck is considered an upgrade when a scarf joint is so much stronger? The direction of the wood grain at the angled back headstock is what makes them so susceptible to breaking, whereas the scarf joint won't have that problem.

[@TheTapMusic]

Honestly I’m with you; I’d rather have a scarf joint than all that exposed endgrain

[@slingknees]

I would guess there’s a tone-snob aspect to it, where the glue joint in a two piece neck supposedly inhibits the resonance of the neck. The smarmy response is like “why have a stronger neck at the expense of tone when you can just be careful with your guitar?” And it’s not wrong but it’s not that big a deal either I think. Certainly wouldn’t call it out as the one spec that makes all the difference in the world, even if you buy into it as an upgrade.

[@craiggallagher7292]

@@slingknees Agreed. There are some upgrades that could have enhanced the tone and the aesthetic and would have been nominal cost-wise. I don't think this is as "limited" as the others, either. I would have been happy for a few more upgrades, even if it cost a bit more. Anybody want the ugly-ass strap I got with mine? I am trying to return mine to the JB store where I paid about $100+ more than all of the other places selling it. I was...hahahah... afraid I was going to... miss out...hahaha. If I can't, I will sell mine for what I have in it, which I do not think I could get now, anyway. AS my dog likes to say, "grrrrrrrr."

[@davidburke2132]

Mainly it’s what Trogly describes… it’s the original or vintage accurate way of doing it. And on a guitar that’s meant to be at least a homage to an original late 50s Les Paul that’s a nice touch. I’d also add that it’s definitely more expensive to do it this way. The reason why Epiphone generally do a two or three piece neck isn’t really because it’s stronger, it’s because it’s more cost effective. Think of all of the wasted mahogany you have making a guitar neck with a thick heel and back angled headstock out of a single blank of wood. The neck blank for a two or three piece Epiphone neck is much much smaller and you save lots of wood, which saves a chunk of money (and is also better for the environment too I guess). This is what Trogly meant by it being well worth the $50 premium over the normal production run 1959.

[@trader307]

a one piece neck helps with the resonance and sustain , yes 3 piece , scarf is stronger, lesson here is dont drop youre axe

[@cpoyet4107]

For me it looks nice but there are so many guitars like this one that epiphone did already... I got a Joe perry, a friend of mine got the 59, we love our épi for sure...

[@fuzzysurf1083]

Ah, c'mon the pink lining is fine. It complements the guitar's lemon burst finish.

[@TheChicagoTodd]

The pink is actually a little lighter color and maybe a different material than in my Gibson cases.....it just feels a little "off". Not a big deal at all.

[@brucek2946]

I thought the pickups were the best thing about it.. those pickups sound great !

[@ApeLikeCreature]

The sound FANTASTIC! This is a GREAT Les Paul. All these naysayers, probably playing Chibsons.

[@asw7696]

How can you tell?

[@DaringDan]

90% the sound of a Gibson Les Paul for a fourth to a fifth of the price of a Gibson 59 reissue. Seems like a winner and no brainer to me. It'll also appreciate in value because of the signature it is.

[@tedwagner2145]

I had the same issue with the same screw on the high-E side of the neck pickup. But, that was easily reattached, and oh my! That huge '59 neck is perfect for my big paws. Odd, because Fender '50s V-necks are my favorites. But it's a great guitar, with nice pickups. Mine has a more figured top than this one, and I have no issue with the fret edges. The neck is similar in size to the only real Gibson '59 Les Paul I've ever played, and that's why I love it. My buddy shaved the back of his "real" one, in effect, turning it into a '60. ;-)

[@59LesPaul]

Surprised, they could have actually created an exact copy "photo flame" of the Lazarus top and mounted it on a maple cap... it would have been pretty cool!

[@mhdz10]

I think it is a good instrument. But I honestly think it is just a regular 1959 Epiphone Les Paul with a one-piece neck as a plus. Being an Epiphone (not a real 1959 Gibson replica), I think it is better to have scarf joint on these "real player" instruments. Besides, Epiphone would normally use a better piece of mahogany for the head when using scarf joint, which translate on a better sound and of course the joints makes them a little bit stronger. The only reason they use scarf joint is because it is faster (cheaper) to build.

[@pleasantlindsey33]

This was played a year ago so I’m late to this party. The clean bridge sound was dull to me, but the cranked sound was great in all three positions. I liked the neck and middle positions clean, too.

[@ralphwest8156]

A great Epiphone ' high gloss would make the figuring pop better, after sorting those springs the frets should be easy to carefully smooth off ...the case although inside too light pink, looks nice and strong but better than a bag ' ...and of course, a much more pound friendly 'Greeny' if preferred, especially with those tones '

[@damonwolf7222]

The fact that MIC Epiphones are APPRECIATING in value is absolutely baffling to me. There are a few models I was waiting a couple years to buy used for $250 or $300 or so less than the brand new price and now they're more like $300 MORE! 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@longbow5423]

I don't own the Lazarus version but the 59 version of the exact same guitar from Epi. Same case too save for the graphics on it of which I like the plain Epiphone signature better. I am thinking of having a friend of mine who makes guitars buff out the top to see what happens and how it would look. Other than that the guitar needs 0 mods nor set up as it came perfect out of the box. Sounds and play's beautifully especially through my Laney all tube amp. stay safe

[@bigjohnson9561]

I like the specs on this guitar. The lemon burst is cool looking hue which under lights on a stage really comes alive. In my opinion it’s a lot of guitar for the price point. Thanks for posting.

[@SDisonYT]

It’s a really nice guitar for the money, but I still prefer the Alex Lifeson signature one for the same price.

[@JoshuaC923]

Agreed

[@SDisonYT]

@@rila8502 I already bought the Alex Lifeson one, and it’s fantastic. I like it even more than my Gibson.

[@Ineedahandle75]

I don't agree that it's got the same colour. It really isn't close. The real Lazarus is more of a gold colour almost, I would say. The Epi is really just a lemon burst. That's the one thing I wish they had tried harder on.

[@musclecarmitch908]

Really nice, I just wish it was a gloss finish instead of satin.

[@craiggallagher7292]

Could you polish the heck out of it until it is gloss?

[@slashtrio]

@@craiggallagher7292 probably, I have seen guys on KZbin doing that to the 59s. Yea, the satin look just looks cheap on this and one the 59. Otherwise it seems pretty cool.

[@howardskinner4916]

Graph Tech nut is a really good spec. If I wanted a Les Paul to gig with, I'd get one of the models mentioned here.

[@jefferson4245]

When it comes to these "higher end" Epiphones, I really just want the Gibson pickups. Burstbucker 2 & 3 is one of my favorite HB combos. I plan on putting some in my Epi Explorer at some point. If I can stop buying other guitars and gear first..

[@lasombra_br]

I definitely don't like BurstBuckers. I tried the Ghosthorse and didn't like the tone and thought it was the build, but now I'm convinced I don't like them. Thanks again, Trogly!

[@HughJainess]

I bought the Epi Lazarus with the JB signature inlay in the fretboard and also had his signature on the pickgaurd, which they only made 300 of em..from a concert here in Memphis where I live about 2 years ago. Paid $1100 for it and just wondering what all you Nerdville lovers think about it and the worth. It plays about as good as some cheaper Gibsons I've played. Definitely will keep just because I'm a true JB fan but like to hear what people think about it!

[@yakacm]

A piece of highly figured Birdseye Maple veneer, enough to cover the top of a guitar costs about £10, that's to buy 1 sheet, I'm guessing that if you were Gibson buying large amounts, you'd be able to get it for considerably less. Yeah I know you're paying for the labour to apply it too, the point I'm making is the materials don't actually costs that much, so the amount of markup Gibson get selling guitars is mind blowing.

[@DVDCLARKSN]

I am going to put a deposit down on one of these with Sweetwater if they are still taking deposits. Typically with most of their guitars you can choose the guitar based on the top. Don’t know if this will be possible but it would be nice to have that option. I have seen the 1959 Epiphone LP and was really not impressed at all with the satin finish. Just made it look cheap plasticky. I would definitely polish the finish on this guitar down for a gloss appearance on the front and the headstock.

[@dahgrumpstah3520]

Received mine today. Was appalled at the condition of the shipping box. 3 quarters of the staples holding the cardboard together were popped out. Bottom quarter of it was crushed. Guitar was in upside down. Luckily, guitar and case were ok. Had the same issue with the neck pup and sharp fret ends. My top is not AAAA. At best, it’s AA. Neck does have a little flame and 2 piece back is plain. I do like the lemon top and agree with you it should be high gloss. so, I might have it buffed out.

[@brownj2]

I polished the top of mine and filed the fret ends and it is a nice guitar to play now. It sounds the same as my Gibson 2022 60s LP standard, (same BB pickups) but the finish is not in the same class. I am much less worried about putting a ding into the Epiphone though and that has value all its own.

[@tannersparrow5588]

Exactly, I love my standard but sometimes I'm scared to take it with me to gigs.

[@greenmanalishi6963]

Do u mind going in depth on how u polished the top finish. I plan on doing it to mine very soon.

[@littvay]

I was very skeptical of the 59 Epi they made with the custom shop. This convinces me more. I guess it helps that I hated those bursts while I like this lemon top.

[@nickb1161]

I've heard that almost everyone has the same issue with the neck pickup falling in. Not sure how that would happen for just this one model.

[@303MoTo]

11:22 There's a bee hunting your arm... lol

[@billybat5790]

i ordered one through sweetwater and got a call saying itll come by next year. but the listing is now gone and i havent been charged yet. hope i still get it, going to call my rep soon

[@csykoe]

Sus

[@davegreeley]

You can order from the Joe Bonamassa store and have within days. They also have limited 300 custom inlayed fretboard for $100 more.

[@tomleary121257]

As an older guitar player I think these are great we can't all afford an expensive guitar so buying these will get you a chance to get the feel of at least what it's like to own a electric guitar for a thousand bucks or a little bit less

[@tomleary121257]

@@marander512 hi Miranda Aloha from Hawaii it turns out I have a Gibson Les Paul double cut plus I bought in 2005 it's a awesome guitar but I also have a Zak wild camo Epiphone and a Epiphone flying b and I also have a LTD Jeff hanneman so as a 64-year-old guy I understand Gibson pretty well I own the Heritage b before but now they're 10 grand so Epiphone does make me happy

[@thetoneknob4493]

ide be tempted to make a greeny clone out of one of these.

[@soundofwinter]

My thought as well!

[@donthewatcher]

gibson is now selling greeny burstbuckers $300@@soundofwinter

[@googaboogaloo]

The bonamassa firebird is the coolest signature he has. Also bonus for only putting his initials on it for I have the same initials.

[@TheChicagoTodd]

The Firebird tobacco burst is really cool looking....

[@thenameless3271]

I really wish they were available to us mortals, or Epiphone would at least put out a non-JB edition of the FB-1.

[@googaboogaloo]

@@thenameless3271 i have one but I wish they had a non jb firebird one.

[@TheChicagoTodd]

@@thenameless3271 Yes....very nice guitar, but does have neck dive. I was able to score one on Reverb in the last few months at a premium (unfortunately).

[@22.NUU.DRU.22]

Gotta live that pepto case.

[@bnastali]

Great presentation! You got the details others didn't. Super job.

[@oldnorthstatefishing3912]

The neck pickup issue is on a lot of them, mine included! Not a big issue to me though.

[@ivanjulian2532]

You don't necessarily need stronger springs for the neck pickup mount. A stash of small stainless steel washers can solve your problem easy as. Alternatively, even a stash of nylon washers will do the trick.

[@davegreeley]

Do you think the one with Bonamassa inlayed on the fret board will be worth anything with only 300 of them? If so, how much?

[@ginaalwaysavip1177]

I do believe so that's why I purchased it. I'll get Joe to sign it and put it away for awhile. Blessings

[@Anjohl]

I just finally pulled the trigger on a 59 Standard Outfit. What a ton of guitar. Love the thick 50's neck, which aren't that common!

[@betting4life948]

Just bought lemon burst from guitar center brand new for 599.99+ tax

[@kerryjones6613]

Not bad I don't care for the lemon top. I just bought the epiphone modern graphic black I think they put time and Effort into the modern ebony fret board grover locking tuners I bought the guitar after your review on the blue one thanks I made a dam good choice. I love this guitar. For $649.00 everybody should by one. People remember Epiphone is owned by Gibson so they always make money be smart buy the epiphone modern better than some Gidsons.

[@jonathanhudak2059]

Seems like a pretty decent guitar for the money, I love the lemon burst finish. But if I was to buy a Les Paul Standard I think I would save my pennies/dollars and go the whole hog and buy a Gibson. Still though I get why people buy the Epiphones. I have their SG Muse it was a gift from a very good friend of mine and it's a really nice, sweet guitar and kind of a specialty one with its coil taps for the pickups etcetera.

[@flapjack413]

I really don't see the one piece neck as an upgrade. Personally, I'd much prefer a scarf jointed headstock, they tend to stick around for much longer, lol.

[@aprilkurtz1589]

The top on that guitar looks exactly like the top on my mid-60's formica dining room table.

[@jasonmyers7410]

LMFAO 😂😂

[@chrisburch3808]

Seems like a common issue with that neck pickup mine showed up like that as has a bunch of others

[@mattdolby1]

I have the pelham blue 2014 JB epi les paul.. No silly veneer on the front or back. Burstbucker 2&3. Baseball bat neck, long tenon ect. Would love to know if this is any better or different?