If you ever looked inside a cocoon during the metamorphosis process you would find a bunch of goo. I’m feeling like that goo. Getting the site together, getting the music together to be recorded, the strap, writing a book on banjo, teaching personal banjo lessons, gigging, and a full time teaching gig at a school that has the craziest hours on the planet leaves me reeling (not complaining, it’s all goo), but it is all solidifying and progressing from goo to gel. I’m mostly excited about the site. Tangibility is a wonderful thing. Thanks to Dave, David, and Nick at Planet Digital for helping me organize my ideas.
I am now endorsed by the Gold Tone Banjo Company, and one of the banjos I play is their EBM electric banjo. Inspired by the Gibson F-style mandolin. The EBM electric banjo (5 strings) mandolin name is a little understated, but I guess like RB# (whatever), it is keeping with tradition. With the F-style mandolin curves and the portal hole-like collar around the head it reminds me of the wooden rum-runner boats of the 1920s. While on the topic of this nautical theme may I suggest The Flying Dutchman, or is that a little overboard? (Pun intended). There is a humbucking pickup under the head and single coil on the body that gives you a variety of tone coloration and a nice bass response. The EBM has a true banjo sound but I prefer it when I want a jazz or effected sound because of added sustain. The head size plus balanced design adds to a comfortable playability. Not bad for about a grand.
Gold Tone Banjo’s founders Wayne and Robyn Rogers are a local supporter of our little banjo community in Geneva, Florida, and there are several Gold Tone banjos being played around here. They are located in Titusville across from the Kennedy Space Center. I do think they make a good banjo for the money.
