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A five-string silhouette stands with quiet confidence, its quilted maple top catching the light in a way that feels both deliberate and organic. The amber burst finish moves from deep, smoky edges toward a glowing center, emphasizing the natural figuring of the wood without tipping into excess. Set against a dark backdrop, the instrument reads as purposeful and balanced—designed for work, but finished with care.
The Lakland Skyline 55-01 has long been associated with clarity and range, and that intent is visible here before a single note is played. The extended five-string format suggests modern versatility, while the familiar contours keep the design grounded in classic electric bass lineage. Black hardware and understated controls recede visually, allowing the wood and form to carry the composition. Even the rear view reinforces restraint: smooth black finish, clean neck joint, and a maple neck that introduces a lighter vertical counterpoint.
Details matter in an instrument portrait, and the photography leans into that truth. The quilt pattern shifts subtly from angle to angle, rewarding closer inspection. Chrome elements at the bridge and tuners provide just enough contrast to anchor the frame, while the dark fingerboard adds a sense of depth and seriousness. Shown both upright and resting in its case, the bass feels ready—less a collectible object than a reliable tool with aesthetic confidence.
Taken as a whole, the image presents a modern working instrument with visual authority: refined, flexible, and built to be played.
Welcome to low-end heaven. This tightly packed display of Bacchus bass guitars, spotted in a Tokyo music store, reads like a love letter to boutique craftsmanship at accessible price points. Made in Japan by Deviser, Bacchus is a brand celebrated for delivering hand-finished instruments with tonal punch, custom-shop looks, and smooth-as-butter playability—all without the eye-watering price tag of some boutique luthiers.
At the heart of this display are numerous Bacchus Handmade Series and Global Series basses, each flaunting its own distinct finish—from charcoal burst to natural ash and deep aqua quilt tops. The headstocks gleam under recessed lighting, while the gloss finishes play with reflections from the polished wood floors. There's a heavy lean into 5-string and 6-string territory here, a clear sign that this shop caters to serious players who need versatility, extended range, and modern tonal flexibility.
Architecturally, the display itself is an efficient labyrinth of sonic sculpture. The basses stand tightly packed but thoughtfully arranged, forming a visually rhythmic grid of tuner pegs, fingerboards, and tonal variety. The shop’s lighting design—cool ceiling spots over warm floor tones—gives the entire room a curated gallery feel.
This isn’t just a retail moment—it’s a snapshot of a culture that reveres craft. In Japan, even production-line instruments get attention to detail usually reserved for custom shops elsewhere. Whether you’re a slap-happy funk monster or a fingerstyle explorer, Bacchus offers a gateway into the boutique world that feels both grounded and elevated.
Copyright © 2017 OffdaLipp Images
This image is protected under the United States and International Copyright laws and may not be downloaded, reproduced, copied, transmitted or manipulated without permission written or otherwise from OffdaLipp
Copyright © 2017 OffdaLipp Images
This image is protected under the United States and International Copyright laws and may not be downloaded, reproduced, copied, transmitted or manipulated without permission written or otherwise from OffdaLipp
Designed around nuance rather than excess, this Ibanez Gary Willis Signature 5-string fretless marks the 20th anniversary of one of modern bass’s most influential voices. The instrument presents a restrained, purposeful aesthetic: a compact, ergonomically contoured body finished in a warm sunburst that lets the wood speak without distraction. Nothing here feels ornamental. Every curve serves balance, comfort, and control.
The fretless fingerboard invites a highly expressive playing approach, rewarding precision with singing sustain and the unmistakable “mwah” that has defined Gary Willis’s sound across decades of jazz fusion and modern improvisation. The extended-range five-string format adds depth and flexibility, anchoring melodic exploration with a confident low register while maintaining clarity across the neck. The lined fretless layout offers visual reference without interrupting the fluid feel under the fingers.
Seen in a straightforward, lived-in setting, the bass reads as a serious working instrument rather than a display piece. Details like the anniversary back plate and signature headstock quietly signal its significance, but the overall impression remains focused and disciplined. This is a tool built for players who value articulation, touch, and dynamic control—an anniversary model that honors a legacy by staying resolutely musical.
Designed around nuance rather than excess, this Ibanez Gary Willis Signature 5-string fretless marks the 20th anniversary of one of modern bass’s most influential voices. The instrument presents a restrained, purposeful aesthetic: a compact, ergonomically contoured body finished in a warm sunburst that lets the wood speak without distraction. Nothing here feels ornamental. Every curve serves balance, comfort, and control.
The fretless fingerboard invites a highly expressive playing approach, rewarding precision with singing sustain and the unmistakable “mwah” that has defined Gary Willis’s sound across decades of jazz fusion and modern improvisation. The extended-range five-string format adds depth and flexibility, anchoring melodic exploration with a confident low register while maintaining clarity across the neck. The lined fretless layout offers visual reference without interrupting the fluid feel under the fingers.
Seen in a straightforward, lived-in setting, the bass reads as a serious working instrument rather than a display piece. Details like the anniversary back plate and signature headstock quietly signal its significance, but the overall impression remains focused and disciplined. This is a tool built for players who value articulation, touch, and dynamic control—an anniversary model that honors a legacy by staying resolutely musical.
The Fender Steve Harris Signature Precision Bass, proudly displayed at Fender’s flagship store in Tokyo, is a tribute to the iconic Iron Maiden bassist’s powerful sound and distinctive style. Finished in Olympic White with a bold West Ham United crest, this bass combines rock ‘n’ roll attitude with a touch of personal heritage, making it instantly recognizable. Known for his aggressive tone and unmatched precision, Steve Harris worked closely with Fender to create an instrument that can handle the demands of stadium-filling performances and intricate bass lines.
Crafted from an alder body with a gloss polyester finish, the Steve Harris Precision Bass is as durable as it is eye-catching. Its maple neck with a maple fretboard ensures that classic Fender feel, offering smooth playability and a punchy, clear tone. The high-output Seymour Duncan SPB-4 Steve Harris Signature Pickup is specially designed to capture Harris's distinct sound, delivering powerful lows, rich mids, and cutting clarity that fans of Iron Maiden have come to love. Chrome-plated hardware and a Fender HiMass bridge add to the bass's durability and sustain, making it a reliable choice for professional bassists.
Fender’s Tokyo flagship provides an immersive experience for any fan of rock legends, and seeing this signature bass up close is a thrill for Iron Maiden devotees. With its striking visuals, premium components, and connection to one of metal’s most influential bass players, the Steve Harris Signature Precision Bass embodies the spirit of rock music. This instrument is perfect for anyone looking to channel the energy and skill of a bass icon, whether on stage or in the studio.
This immersive image offers a dreamlike view inside MIKI GAKKI BASS SIDE—a specialty bass guitar store in Osaka’s Amerikamura district, renowned among musicians for its wall-to-wall inventory of top-tier basses. The photo captures an entire section of the store’s display, showcasing multiple rows of Fender Jazz and Precision-style bass guitars, expertly arranged and ready to be played.
The instruments span a spectrum of finishes—from classic sunburst and glossy black to candy apple red and arctic white—each hanging with a tag detailing specs, pricing, and model names. Prominently featured in the front row are Fender Player Jazz Basses, known for their blend of affordability, playability, and iconic tone. With prices hovering around ¥86,900, this lineup appeals to both entry-level musicians and intermediate players looking to upgrade.
The carefully lit, wood-floored interior enhances the showroom effect, allowing each guitar’s details to shine—from tortoiseshell pickguards and maple necks to active electronics and custom pickups. The setting is not just a retail environment; it’s a bass-lover’s paradise, where each instrument is treated with reverence and care.
The presentation emphasizes Japan’s culture of precision and curation, and MIKI GAKKI’s reputation for offering world-class instruments in pristine condition is clearly on display. Whether you're a touring bassist, a gear collector, or simply a fan of beautiful instruments, this visual feast of finishes and forms captures the essence of a flagship music retailer dedicated entirely to the low end.
Designed around nuance rather than excess, this Ibanez Gary Willis Signature 5-string fretless marks the 20th anniversary of one of modern bass’s most influential voices. The instrument presents a restrained, purposeful aesthetic: a compact, ergonomically contoured body finished in a warm sunburst that lets the wood speak without distraction. Nothing here feels ornamental. Every curve serves balance, comfort, and control.
The fretless fingerboard invites a highly expressive playing approach, rewarding precision with singing sustain and the unmistakable “mwah” that has defined Gary Willis’s sound across decades of jazz fusion and modern improvisation. The extended-range five-string format adds depth and flexibility, anchoring melodic exploration with a confident low register while maintaining clarity across the neck. The lined fretless layout offers visual reference without interrupting the fluid feel under the fingers.
Seen in a straightforward, lived-in setting, the bass reads as a serious working instrument rather than a display piece. Details like the anniversary back plate and signature headstock quietly signal its significance, but the overall impression remains focused and disciplined. This is a tool built for players who value articulation, touch, and dynamic control—an anniversary model that honors a legacy by staying resolutely musical.
Designed around nuance rather than excess, this Ibanez Gary Willis Signature 5-string fretless marks the 20th anniversary of one of modern bass’s most influential voices. The instrument presents a restrained, purposeful aesthetic: a compact, ergonomically contoured body finished in a warm sunburst that lets the wood speak without distraction. Nothing here feels ornamental. Every curve serves balance, comfort, and control.
The fretless fingerboard invites a highly expressive playing approach, rewarding precision with singing sustain and the unmistakable “mwah” that has defined Gary Willis’s sound across decades of jazz fusion and modern improvisation. The extended-range five-string format adds depth and flexibility, anchoring melodic exploration with a confident low register while maintaining clarity across the neck. The lined fretless layout offers visual reference without interrupting the fluid feel under the fingers.
Seen in a straightforward, lived-in setting, the bass reads as a serious working instrument rather than a display piece. Details like the anniversary back plate and signature headstock quietly signal its significance, but the overall impression remains focused and disciplined. This is a tool built for players who value articulation, touch, and dynamic control—an anniversary model that honors a legacy by staying resolutely musical.
Nikon D90 with Nikkor AF-S VR Micro 105mm at f/3.3, 1/30, ISO 720.
Fender Deluxe Stratocaster. Corona, California. Solid swamp ash body.
Displayed against a warm wood backdrop in a Tokyo boutique guitar shop, this vibrant Fender Jazz Bass immediately pulls focus with its rare combination of color and cultural detail. Dressed in a vivid custom green finish, the bass features a bold diagonal southwestern motif along the lower bout—evoking desert hues and vintage textiles—offering a fresh visual take on Fender’s most versatile workhorse.
Introduced in 1960, the Jazz Bass was Leo Fender’s follow-up to the Precision Bass, designed to feel more familiar to guitar players with its slimmer neck and offset body. This model celebrates that heritage with dual white Jazz Bass single-coil pickups, a clean white pickguard, and three cream control knobs mounted in classic offset alignment.
The gloss-finished maple neck and fingerboard pop against the saturated body color, showcasing dot inlays, tight fretwork, and a stunning ambered tone that hints at vintage warmth. Paired with the sleek body shape and ergonomic contours that made the Jazz Bass a staple across funk, jazz, indie, and rock genres, this instrument looks as smooth as it plays.
But what truly sets it apart is the detail—the southwestern stripe adds a hint of visual storytelling. It’s more than custom—it’s expressive, adventurous, and unmistakably boutique. Whether it’s a one-off custom from Fender Japan or a rare regional edition, this bass makes a statement.
This is the kind of gear that feels just as at home on stage under spotlights as it does under glass—built to be seen, heard, and felt.
For more on this one, you could click here: davewhatt.wordpress.com/2025/07/29/oh-whats-that-there-by...
Nikon D90 with Nikkor AF-S VR Micro 105mm at f/3.3, 1/30, ISO 250.
Fender Deluxe Stratocaster. Corona, California. Solid swamp ash body.
Spotted against a cotton-candy pink wall in a Tokyo music shop, this Fender Made in Japan Junior Collection Jazz Bass in Satin Shell Pink is equal parts eye candy and serious instrument. With its compact scale, modern feel, and unmistakable Jazz Bass tone, this bass is tailor-made for players who want boutique vibes with rock-solid legacy.
The Junior Collection represents Fender Japan’s deep understanding of ergonomics and playability. Built with a 30” scale length, it’s perfect for players with smaller hands or those seeking a more nimble, less fatiguing experience—without compromising the deep growl and articulate midrange that Jazz Basses are known for.
This particular model blends the timeless design language Leo Fender established in the early 1960s with subtle updates. A lightweight alder body, satin-finished maple neck, and vintage-style tuners stay true to the roots, while modern appointments like narrow tall frets and a slightly updated pickup voice keep it responsive and clear.
Aesthetically, the Satin Shell Pink finish is a masterstroke—soft, matte, and utterly fresh. Paired with the bright maple fingerboard and parchment pickguard, it radiates playful confidence. Set against the mod pink backdrop of the Tokyo shop display, this bass almost floats—a design object as much as a musical tool.
For players who appreciate form, function, and flair, this Jazz Bass proves that sometimes, smaller is smarter.
A five-string silhouette stands with quiet confidence, its quilted maple top catching the light in a way that feels both deliberate and organic. The amber burst finish moves from deep, smoky edges toward a glowing center, emphasizing the natural figuring of the wood without tipping into excess. Set against a dark backdrop, the instrument reads as purposeful and balanced—designed for work, but finished with care.
The Lakland Skyline 55-01 has long been associated with clarity and range, and that intent is visible here before a single note is played. The extended five-string format suggests modern versatility, while the familiar contours keep the design grounded in classic electric bass lineage. Black hardware and understated controls recede visually, allowing the wood and form to carry the composition. Even the rear view reinforces restraint: smooth black finish, clean neck joint, and a maple neck that introduces a lighter vertical counterpoint.
Details matter in an instrument portrait, and the photography leans into that truth. The quilt pattern shifts subtly from angle to angle, rewarding closer inspection. Chrome elements at the bridge and tuners provide just enough contrast to anchor the frame, while the dark fingerboard adds a sense of depth and seriousness. Shown both upright and resting in its case, the bass feels ready—less a collectible object than a reliable tool with aesthetic confidence.
Taken as a whole, the image presents a modern working instrument with visual authority: refined, flexible, and built to be played.
A five-string silhouette stands with quiet confidence, its quilted maple top catching the light in a way that feels both deliberate and organic. The amber burst finish moves from deep, smoky edges toward a glowing center, emphasizing the natural figuring of the wood without tipping into excess. Set against a dark backdrop, the instrument reads as purposeful and balanced—designed for work, but finished with care.
The Lakland Skyline 55-01 has long been associated with clarity and range, and that intent is visible here before a single note is played. The extended five-string format suggests modern versatility, while the familiar contours keep the design grounded in classic electric bass lineage. Black hardware and understated controls recede visually, allowing the wood and form to carry the composition. Even the rear view reinforces restraint: smooth black finish, clean neck joint, and a maple neck that introduces a lighter vertical counterpoint.
Details matter in an instrument portrait, and the photography leans into that truth. The quilt pattern shifts subtly from angle to angle, rewarding closer inspection. Chrome elements at the bridge and tuners provide just enough contrast to anchor the frame, while the dark fingerboard adds a sense of depth and seriousness. Shown both upright and resting in its case, the bass feels ready—less a collectible object than a reliable tool with aesthetic confidence.
Taken as a whole, the image presents a modern working instrument with visual authority: refined, flexible, and built to be played.
This eye-popping Fender Jazz Bass in custom retro orange delivers a clean, confident twist on a time-honored classic. Displayed in a boutique setting with subtle overhead light and a black-and-white photo mural behind it, this bass strikes a dynamic pose—equal parts modern minimalism and vintage swagger.
Originally introduced in 1960 by Leo Fender, the Jazz Bass was a sleek, ergonomic response to the beefier Precision Bass, offering a slimmer neck and enhanced tonal clarity. This particular model leans into those original proportions but dresses them in a vibrant orange finish reminiscent of 1970s sunburst muscle cars and vintage surfboards. It’s a bold color choice, softened by the vintage cream pickguard and matching split-coil pickups.
Its rosewood fingerboard adds a touch of warmth—both visually and tonally—contrasting beautifully with the glossy orange body. The control plate and dome knobs retain that unmistakable Jazz Bass offset aesthetic, offering tonal versatility with a look that never goes out of style. While the body suggests 60s-era Fender craftsmanship, the matte display surroundings and backlit mural give this presentation an upscale, museum-like vibe.
This is the kind of bass that turns heads before it’s plugged in. Whether it’s a Japanese-market exclusive, a custom shop one-off, or part of a short-run color series, it embodies everything Jazz Basses are loved for: balanced lines, gutsy tone, and timeless cool.
Nikon D90 with Nikkor AF-S VR Micro 105mm at f/3.3, 1/30, ISO 720.
Fender Deluxe Stratocaster. Corona, California. Solid swamp ash body.
A detailed, close-up shot showcasing the beautiful body of a premium Moon JJ-4 Electric Bass Guitar. Moon Guitars, known for their exceptional Japanese craftsmanship, created a visually striking instrument here. The body is topped with a highly figured, flamed or quilted maple, often referred to as a 'tiger stripe' finish, giving the wood grain an almost three-dimensional depth and movement. The dark amber, translucent finish allows the natural character of the maple to shine through.
This four-string bass features a classic J-Bass configuration with dual white single-coil pickups, black bridge hardware, and a sleek maple fretboard. The polished chrome control knobs contrast beautifully with the richly patterned wood. Resting artfully on a geometric patterned surface, this image highlights the glossy finish and the professional-grade quality of the build, making it a perfect instrument for discerning bass players and collectors around the world.
A captivating overhead shot of a premium electric bass, identified as the Atelier Z 30th Anniversary J-Bass. The instrument showcases exceptional Japanese craftsmanship, centered around a stunning walnut top. The unique, flowing grain pattern of the walnut gives the bass a luxurious, custom appearance. The classic Jazz Bass body shape is outfitted with a maple neck, block inlays, and modern black hardware, which provides a clean contrast to the wood grain. This high-end model features two single-coil J-style pickups, built to deliver the articulate, powerful slap tone the brand is renowned for. The overall presentation emphasizes its status as a custom-quality, modern boutique instrument.
A captivating overhead shot of a premium electric bass, identified as the Atelier Z 30th Anniversary J-Bass. The instrument showcases exceptional Japanese craftsmanship, centered around a stunning walnut top. The unique, flowing grain pattern of the walnut gives the bass a luxurious, custom appearance. The classic Jazz Bass body shape is outfitted with a maple neck, block inlays, and modern black hardware, which provides a clean contrast to the wood grain. This high-end model features two single-coil J-style pickups, built to deliver the articulate, powerful slap tone the brand is renowned for. The overall presentation emphasizes its status as a custom-quality, modern boutique instrument.
A detailed, close-up shot showcasing the beautiful body of a premium Moon JJ-4 Electric Bass Guitar. Moon Guitars, known for their exceptional Japanese craftsmanship, created a visually striking instrument here. The body is topped with a highly figured, flamed or quilted maple, often referred to as a 'tiger stripe' finish, giving the wood grain an almost three-dimensional depth and movement. The dark amber, translucent finish allows the natural character of the maple to shine through.
This four-string bass features a classic J-Bass configuration with dual white single-coil pickups, black bridge hardware, and a sleek maple fretboard. The polished chrome control knobs contrast beautifully with the richly patterned wood. Resting artfully on a geometric patterned surface, this image highlights the glossy finish and the professional-grade quality of the build, making it a perfect instrument for discerning bass players and collectors around the world.
A five-string silhouette stands with quiet confidence, its quilted maple top catching the light in a way that feels both deliberate and organic. The amber burst finish moves from deep, smoky edges toward a glowing center, emphasizing the natural figuring of the wood without tipping into excess. Set against a dark backdrop, the instrument reads as purposeful and balanced—designed for work, but finished with care.
The Lakland Skyline 55-01 has long been associated with clarity and range, and that intent is visible here before a single note is played. The extended five-string format suggests modern versatility, while the familiar contours keep the design grounded in classic electric bass lineage. Black hardware and understated controls recede visually, allowing the wood and form to carry the composition. Even the rear view reinforces restraint: smooth black finish, clean neck joint, and a maple neck that introduces a lighter vertical counterpoint.
Details matter in an instrument portrait, and the photography leans into that truth. The quilt pattern shifts subtly from angle to angle, rewarding closer inspection. Chrome elements at the bridge and tuners provide just enough contrast to anchor the frame, while the dark fingerboard adds a sense of depth and seriousness. Shown both upright and resting in its case, the bass feels ready—less a collectible object than a reliable tool with aesthetic confidence.
Taken as a whole, the image presents a modern working instrument with visual authority: refined, flexible, and built to be played.
I fell deeply in love with this blonde beauty, and just *had* to have her...truly love at first sight...
The bright blue paint colors offset her platinum-blonde hair so well!
Designed around nuance rather than excess, this Ibanez Gary Willis Signature 5-string fretless marks the 20th anniversary of one of modern bass’s most influential voices. The instrument presents a restrained, purposeful aesthetic: a compact, ergonomically contoured body finished in a warm sunburst that lets the wood speak without distraction. Nothing here feels ornamental. Every curve serves balance, comfort, and control.
The fretless fingerboard invites a highly expressive playing approach, rewarding precision with singing sustain and the unmistakable “mwah” that has defined Gary Willis’s sound across decades of jazz fusion and modern improvisation. The extended-range five-string format adds depth and flexibility, anchoring melodic exploration with a confident low register while maintaining clarity across the neck. The lined fretless layout offers visual reference without interrupting the fluid feel under the fingers.
Seen in a straightforward, lived-in setting, the bass reads as a serious working instrument rather than a display piece. Details like the anniversary back plate and signature headstock quietly signal its significance, but the overall impression remains focused and disciplined. This is a tool built for players who value articulation, touch, and dynamic control—an anniversary model that honors a legacy by staying resolutely musical.
Isn't she sooo beautiful...? =)
I really love the look in her eyes...
I also love how her nipple is the volume knob...LOL!
Note that guitar painter Chris Compston signed the guitar as a dagger tattoo on her chest that says "Chris" on it...
*(Chris also painted my Warrant "Cherry Pie" bass)
A detailed, close-up shot showcasing the beautiful body of a premium Moon JJ-4 Electric Bass Guitar. Moon Guitars, known for their exceptional Japanese craftsmanship, created a visually striking instrument here. The body is topped with a highly figured, flamed or quilted maple, often referred to as a 'tiger stripe' finish, giving the wood grain an almost three-dimensional depth and movement. The dark amber, translucent finish allows the natural character of the maple to shine through.
This four-string bass features a classic J-Bass configuration with dual white single-coil pickups, black bridge hardware, and a sleek maple fretboard. The polished chrome control knobs contrast beautifully with the richly patterned wood. Resting artfully on a geometric patterned surface, this image highlights the glossy finish and the professional-grade quality of the build, making it a perfect instrument for discerning bass players and collectors around the world.
This guitar was not only displayed at a winter NAMM show (either 1988 or 1989), but it was also formerly owned by Eddie Van Halen.
Yes, THAT Eddie Van Halen.
I always wanted a Van Halen owned guitar but never expected it to be a BC RIch Gunslinger, as Eddie is not known for playing them, but as it turns out, this one was a gift from VH's bass player Michael Anthony and BC Rich's guitar graphics painter Dan Lawrence to Eddie some years back.
The idea for it came about when Michael Anthony, Glenn Matejzel, and Dan Lawrence were having a sushi dinner together one night and noticed a colorful koi fish illustration on a bottle of saki. Michael thought it was really cool and asked Dan to paint a bass for him with a similar koi fish graphic. Dan agreed, and they decided to paint a matching one on a Gunslinger guitar as a gift for Eddie. The guitar was first displayed at the BC Rich booth at the winter NAMM show ('88 or '89), and after that, the guitar went to Eddie. Eddie apparently liked the way the guitar played but wasn't fond of the fish graphic, so he kept it at his studio. "The Fish" apparently became a running joke in the studio as occasionally when Eddie asked for a guitar, they brought out "The Fish", and Eddie was known to say: "Get that damn fish away from me...LOL". Well one day Eddie was brought "The Fish" by one of his assistants and he said: "You like that fish so much? You want one of my guitars? THAT is now YOUR guitar...get it outta here...!" And so it was gifted to the assistant, and soon after sold to a friend of hers in a band who changed the pick-up and played it in a band for a while before eventually selling it to me. When he initially told me of the guitar's history and former ownership I initially didn't believe him, but the history of the guitar was confirmed for me by Dan Lawrence who painted it for Eddie.
A cool guitar with a damn cool history behind it... :)
My first (bass) guitar build is complete! The bass is made from a Warmoth G4 short scale bass body and neck. The entire bass has a hand-rubbed french polish finish. The body has an aniline dye purpleburst stain rubbed/sprayed directly on the wood underneath the shellac. The headstock has some custom decals under the finish as well.
Specs:
Body - Alder Warmoth G4
Neck - Maple Warmoth SSB 30" Scale
Finish - French Polished Shellac over Aniline Dye Burst
Headstock - Custom Designed Decal
Electronics - Bartolini Classic Bass Pickups with NTMB+ Preamp
Bridge - Gotoh 201 High Mass
Tuners - Hipshot Ultralight
Nut - White TUSQ XL
Strings - D'Addario Half Rounds
See www.unofficialwarmoth.com/index.php?topic=28121.0 for details on the build.
I have decided to replace the plastic nut on my Squier Deluxe Strat with a Graph Tech teflon impregnated nut I bought from Musician's Friend a while back.
Here is the old white plastic nut that came on the guitar, soon to be removed!
Designed around nuance rather than excess, this Ibanez Gary Willis Signature 5-string fretless marks the 20th anniversary of one of modern bass’s most influential voices. The instrument presents a restrained, purposeful aesthetic: a compact, ergonomically contoured body finished in a warm sunburst that lets the wood speak without distraction. Nothing here feels ornamental. Every curve serves balance, comfort, and control.
The fretless fingerboard invites a highly expressive playing approach, rewarding precision with singing sustain and the unmistakable “mwah” that has defined Gary Willis’s sound across decades of jazz fusion and modern improvisation. The extended-range five-string format adds depth and flexibility, anchoring melodic exploration with a confident low register while maintaining clarity across the neck. The lined fretless layout offers visual reference without interrupting the fluid feel under the fingers.
Seen in a straightforward, lived-in setting, the bass reads as a serious working instrument rather than a display piece. Details like the anniversary back plate and signature headstock quietly signal its significance, but the overall impression remains focused and disciplined. This is a tool built for players who value articulation, touch, and dynamic control—an anniversary model that honors a legacy by staying resolutely musical.
I have decided to replace the plastic nut on my Squier Deluxe Strat with a Graph Tech teflon impregnated nut I bought from Musician's Friend a while back.
Here is the old white plastic nut that came on the guitar, soon to be removed!
2009/07/27 Update:
Old plastic nut removal is progressing slowly, so I don't mess the neck up any more than I have to.. It's proving to be a lot more work than I had anticipated, dammit. Someone in Indonesia got a little happy with the glue it seems.. Ugh.
2009/09/26 Update:
Finally found time to finish and installed the new Graph-Tech Trem Nut, and it turned out good! :)
A close-up of the koi fish graphic inspired by a trip with Michael Anthony (Van Halen) to the sushi restaurant one night... *(For the FULL STORY, read the description under the previous photo)
-Displayed at the winter NAMM show of 1988 or 1989 at the BC Rich booth
-Formerly owned by Eddie Van Halen
I'd love to be able to meet Eddie Van Halen one day and have him sign something on the back of his former fish guitar... :)
The paint on this one is stunning as the gold and bronze symbols are pearlized, and the back of the guitar is painted a midnight-blue metallic color rather than the standard black.
Credit goes to the great Dan Lawrence for a really awesome graphics job!
Nikon D90 with Nikon 50mm F/1.4D Af Nikkor Lens, f/1.4, 1/40, ISO 200.
Fender Deluxe Stratocaster made in Corona, California. Solid swamp ash body.
A five-string silhouette stands with quiet confidence, its quilted maple top catching the light in a way that feels both deliberate and organic. The amber burst finish moves from deep, smoky edges toward a glowing center, emphasizing the natural figuring of the wood without tipping into excess. Set against a dark backdrop, the instrument reads as purposeful and balanced—designed for work, but finished with care.
The Lakland Skyline 55-01 has long been associated with clarity and range, and that intent is visible here before a single note is played. The extended five-string format suggests modern versatility, while the familiar contours keep the design grounded in classic electric bass lineage. Black hardware and understated controls recede visually, allowing the wood and form to carry the composition. Even the rear view reinforces restraint: smooth black finish, clean neck joint, and a maple neck that introduces a lighter vertical counterpoint.
Details matter in an instrument portrait, and the photography leans into that truth. The quilt pattern shifts subtly from angle to angle, rewarding closer inspection. Chrome elements at the bridge and tuners provide just enough contrast to anchor the frame, while the dark fingerboard adds a sense of depth and seriousness. Shown both upright and resting in its case, the bass feels ready—less a collectible object than a reliable tool with aesthetic confidence.
Taken as a whole, the image presents a modern working instrument with visual authority: refined, flexible, and built to be played.
A detailed, close-up shot showcasing the beautiful body of a premium Moon JJ-4 Electric Bass Guitar. Moon Guitars, known for their exceptional Japanese craftsmanship, created a visually striking instrument here. The body is topped with a highly figured, flamed or quilted maple, often referred to as a 'tiger stripe' finish, giving the wood grain an almost three-dimensional depth and movement. The dark amber, translucent finish allows the natural character of the maple to shine through.
This four-string bass features a classic J-Bass configuration with dual white single-coil pickups, black bridge hardware, and a sleek maple fretboard. The polished chrome control knobs contrast beautifully with the richly patterned wood. Resting artfully on a geometric patterned surface, this image highlights the glossy finish and the professional-grade quality of the build, making it a perfect instrument for discerning bass players and collectors around the world.
A five-string silhouette stands with quiet confidence, its quilted maple top catching the light in a way that feels both deliberate and organic. The amber burst finish moves from deep, smoky edges toward a glowing center, emphasizing the natural figuring of the wood without tipping into excess. Set against a dark backdrop, the instrument reads as purposeful and balanced—designed for work, but finished with care.
The Lakland Skyline 55-01 has long been associated with clarity and range, and that intent is visible here before a single note is played. The extended five-string format suggests modern versatility, while the familiar contours keep the design grounded in classic electric bass lineage. Black hardware and understated controls recede visually, allowing the wood and form to carry the composition. Even the rear view reinforces restraint: smooth black finish, clean neck joint, and a maple neck that introduces a lighter vertical counterpoint.
Details matter in an instrument portrait, and the photography leans into that truth. The quilt pattern shifts subtly from angle to angle, rewarding closer inspection. Chrome elements at the bridge and tuners provide just enough contrast to anchor the frame, while the dark fingerboard adds a sense of depth and seriousness. Shown both upright and resting in its case, the bass feels ready—less a collectible object than a reliable tool with aesthetic confidence.
Taken as a whole, the image presents a modern working instrument with visual authority: refined, flexible, and built to be played.