1939 Kalamazoo Cromwell L50 – £1249
NEW ARRIVAL Cromwell are one of the lesser known depression era brands made by Gibson between 1934 – 1940. They have a similar look and feel to the Gibsons of the same era, but were built with budget in mind. Consequently these guitars were built more lightly, and because of that have aged really well – now more resonant than the Gibsons equivalents. This is a particularly rare example, all the Cromwells I’ve had before have a single vertical line through the centre of the fingerboard, this has twin lines. Also a blonde finish is a rarity in itself. This guitar works really well for blues, jazz and swing, has a very comfortable V profile neck, and a great playing action all the way along the fingerboard. It’s in good condition, with just one repaired back crack, and one repaired shoulder crack. The headstock now has a Kalamazoo logo which, although not original, has been done very well. This guitar has really striking good looks, and a wonderful vintage feel. It comes in a non original hard case.