Jake Bowen, the renowned guitarist of Periphery, has made a significant move by officially joining the Strandberg artist roster. This decision marks a departure from his long-standing association with Ibanez, where he had three signature guitars in their catalog. Bowen's new partnership with Strandberg, a Swedish brand known for its innovative headless guitars, is generating buzz in the music industry. The question on everyone's mind is: What will this collaboration entail?
A Natural Alignment
Strandberg's decision to sign Bowen is strategic. With a relatively small artist roster, they needed a high-profile player to keep their brand relevant and exciting. Bowen's creative requirements align perfectly with Strandberg's design philosophy, emphasizing ergonomics and innovation. This partnership is a natural fit, as both parties share a commitment to pushing the boundaries of guitar design.
Bowen's Perspective
Bowen's enthusiasm for Strandberg guitars is evident. He describes his first encounter with the brand as a life-changing moment. "A great guitar should be inspiring the moment you pick it up," he says. "When I picked up a Strandberg for the first time, I knew it was special. As a guitarist for 34 years, I've had a lot of time to discover what works in the studio and on the road. Strandberg guitars offer a lightweight, ergonomic solution without compromising tone, playability, and that instant source of inspiration."
The Headless Guitar Market
The rise of headless guitars in the mainstream market is a significant trend. Strandberg's EndurNeck profile, with its focus on ergonomics, sets them apart. However, the competition is fierce, with other brands also offering their headless models. Bowen's signature DiMarzio Mirage humbuckers, known for their exceptional tone, will be a key factor in his transition to the Strandberg platform.
Signature Model Speculation
The internet is abuzz with speculation about a potential signature model, dubbed the Strandberg Bowen. This model would be a modified Boden, incorporating Bowen's signature pickups and design elements. The collaboration between Bowen and Strandberg could lead to a groundbreaking guitar that redefines the headless guitar market.
Periphery's Signature Guitars
Periphery's bandmate, Misha Mansoor, has also made headlines with his signature Jackson guitar, the Juggernaut. This eight-string monster, equipped with EverTune, allows Mansoor to explore new sonic territories. The collaboration between Bowen and Strandberg, and Mansoor and Jackson, showcases the evolving landscape of signature guitars in the progressive metal scene.
As the music industry eagerly anticipates the outcomes of these collaborations, one thing is clear: the future of guitar design is an exciting, innovative space. Bowen's switch to Strandberg is a testament to the brand's ability to attract top talent and create cutting-edge instruments. The coming months will reveal the full scope of this partnership, leaving fans and industry experts alike intrigued.
