Vintage Guitar Cast

Video - "Stevie" by Don't Harass Betty

2007-06-13T19:49:00.000-04:00

OK, a little shameless self-promotion for my band, "Don't Harass Betty," and my favorite summer pastime here in NH - Laconia Bike Week! Yup, motorcycles and rock-n-roll...what could be better?

All the footage was shot on the 12th of June at Weirs Beach. The song is our tribute to Harley-Davidson. Hope you like it! You can visit our website at dontharassbetty.com.

Just Checkin' In

2007-05-06T19:32:00.000-04:00

I haven't fallen off the planet...I swear!
Please stay tuned. I hope to have the podcast back up and running soon. Please feel free to send model suggestions, too.
Thanks for hanging in there, and I'll talk to you shortly.
Cheers,
Ceejay

VGC 018: The Squier Bullets

2007-01-19T16:42:00.000-05:00

Hey Everybody!
It's finally time for a new episode! I'm feeling pretty good and ready to jump back into the podcast. Well, as promised, we are going to finish up the Fender Bullet topic by discussing the Squier models. Unfortunately...there wasn't a lot of information to be found. That's a pity, because not only did Squier continue producing the basic models that were already offered in the U.S. in the early 80s, but they created a lot of additional models a little later on, seemingly catering more toward the hard rock crowd (think "near pointy").

Basically, the used Squier Bullets are still really reasonably priced, and if you want to use it to make changes or upgrades, you probably won't feel squidgy about messing around with it (such as the one pictured at the left with the stickers and the skull knobs on it).

Anyhow, we do have a little history about Squier and the usual foray into eBay to see just what's what. Additionally, one of our subscribers, John, sent us some cool links to share.

Please visit these sites, and if you have any to share, let me know! You can email me at vintageguitarcast[at]gmail[dot]com.
Here's the list of today's music: "Doctor" by BLOOM, "Nothing Better to Do" by The Velmas, "Better Life" by Common Ground, and "Better Day" by Polaradio. You can find these songs in episode 51 of The Opinionated Ramblings Podsafe Shuffle Podcast or at the Podsafe Music Network. Please visit and support these bands.

Thanks for staying subscribed while I recovered from my surgery, and I will talk to you again soon! ~Ceejay

Happy Holidays!

2006-12-29T20:31:00.000-05:00

Hey there, everyone!
I hope you had a very jolly holiday, and you're ready for the new year. I am home from the surgery and in rest-recovery mode. I was able to come home before Christmas - they released me last Friday, so that was nice. Not doing much of anything just yet, but at least I'm home. You just can't get any rest in a hospital. LOL!

I just wanted to check in with ya and say Hey. Hopefully, I'll be able to put a show together soon. I've had mega computra issues lately that forced me to do a complete reformat and rebuild on the laptop. That sucks. I lost some data, too...lots of recent emails as well as my address book (so if you emailed me lately and didn't hear back, please try again!!).

Well, take care of yourselves, and have a Happy New Year! I'll be talking to you real soon.
Cheers!

VGC 17 - The Fender Bullet: 2nd Version

2006-12-17T14:04:00.000-05:00

Howdy, folks! Ready for The Fender Bullet, part 2? I know I am!

This episode is dedicated to the second version of Fender's original Bullet line from 1983. These guitars and basses were produced in the U.S. for really just 1983 into 1984 before the model was sent across the Pacific and began to be made in Japan and sold under the name, Squier Bullet (stay tuned for VGC 18, where we will pick up on them there...).

There were 5 different guitars and 2 (or 3) basses available. The guitars were offered with both single coil or humbuckers and basses as either long or short scale. Fender also offered a couple more standard color options from Version 1, adding sunburst and a walnut stain (aka: "root beer brown").

These are great little guitars that have definitely seen active movement in value over the past few years. Going Up as they say! Might want to grab one now and hang on to it a while, especially if you're outside the U.S.!

Today's sources are The Blue Book of Electric Guitars, 5th Edition and 9th Edition as well as the original owner's manuals for these instruments (pictured above).

Music on today's show includes "Black Friday" by Music for Viola, "Christmas Here on Mars" by Bubble, "Christmas in Pizzaville" by Escape Goats, "American Holiday Song" by BELT, "Christmas Wish" by Gidgets Ga Ga, "One Christmas" by Al Stravinsky, and "I Drank Too Much at the Office Christmas Party" by The Alice Project. Links and information can be found at The Opinionated Ramblings Podsafe Shuffle site (see episode 49) and the Podsafe Music Network.

Please let me know if you have any difficulty with the downloads, and feel free to contact me via email at vintageguitarcast@gmail.com. Take care, and I'll catch you next time!

VGC 16 - Revisited... A Reposting

2006-12-15T14:49:00.000-05:00

Well, once again it seems GoDaddy dropped the ball...
The original posting of VGC 16, the Fender Bullet, doesn't seem to be recognized by iTunes (or anything else, for that matter), so I am reposting it .

My apoligies if you happened to get it twice.

Please check the original post below for details and links.

Thanks and Cheers!

VGC 16 - The Fender Bullet: 1st Series

2006-12-04T17:01:00.000-05:00

I've been holding on to this one for a special occasion, and I think it's time. Today, I want to talk about the Fender Bullet. Just the first series, though. We'll do the second series next time.

The Fender Bullet first arrived on the scene in 1982, presumably to fill the void left by the removal of the Mustang and Musicmaster models. Aimed at the introductory market, these guitars were definitely of a quality high enough for players beyond that stage.
Although the first versions had limited options, with only 2 basic models (the standard Bullet and the Bullet Deluxe with separate bridge) and 2 color choices (red and ivory), they are extremely easy to play, comfortable, and tonally diverse.

Produced really only about 2 years, they can be harder to find than the second series, but still show up with regularity on eBay, pawn shops, and stores that still have a decent trade-in section. Better scoop one up now though...prices have been rising lately. Expect to pay between $200 and $400 on average in the U.S. More overseas.

Today's sources included The Blue Book of Electric Guitars, 9th Edition and the original 1982 Fender Catalog (where that groovy picture came from!). If you'd like more info on the Bullet, check out the Fender Bullet Appreciation Page. Today's backing music featured: "Monsters" by Matchbook Romance, "Monster" by Meg & Dia, "Monsters" by Common Ground, and "Monster" by The Muggs, all of which can be found on the Halloween Episode of Opinionated Ramblings and at the Podsafe Music Network.

Next time, we'll look at the Bullet second series, which offers several models, more colors, and even a Bullet Bass. Until then, take care and keep jamming!

Fear Not!

2006-11-26T11:05:00.000-05:00

Hey Guitar Fans,
Just wanted to check in to let you know that the show has NOT podfaded! Over the past several weeks I have gotten a promotion at work and been trying to learn the new job, gone on vacation halfway across the country and had no internet connection, and gotten a really nasty cold that has left me sounding like my head is wrapped in a blanket and I've been smoking a ton of rough cigarettes.
As soon as I start sounding like a human being again, I will be putting up the next episode.
Hang in there, and I'll be talking to you soon!
Happy Holidays!
~Ceejay

Another Cool Video for You

2006-11-11T13:34:00.000-05:00

I've been trying to fit in time for a proper VGC episode, but it just hasn't happened. So instead I have another cool little item from YouTube for you. You know how fascinated I am by renditions of classical music done with electric guitar and/or bass, so today I present to you the following: "Rondo alla turca"...otherwise known as "Mozart Metal" by Fettskraag. Enjoy, and I will talk to you soon!

Happy Halloween, Everybody!

2006-10-31T10:38:00.000-05:00

Just want to wish you all a very happy Halloween!
If you have any great pictures of you in costume (playing a Halloween gig, perhaps?), and you'd like to share them, send 'em along, and I'll post 'em.
~Ceejay

VGC 15: The Peavey T-60

2006-10-21T07:12:00.000-04:00

Think back to your first guitar for a moment... now, if you're about my age (no, I'm not telling, but you can probably figure it out), it quite possibly was one of these: The Peavey T-60.

What a cool guitar! This one had tons of features and a healthy dose of tone to go with it. You could go from a surefire single coil sound to a thick humbucker with a turn of the knob. And don't forget the phase switch! Last but not least, you could drag the case behind a pickup truck for miles and it would have emerged nearly unscathed. Production spanned from 1978 - 1987 or so. Now, that's what I call a great all-around guitar, and to think it ended up as a starter instrument for so many players.

Well, as it turns out, guide book prices have actually dropped a little on this model in the past 8 years. Even cooler! You can get one of these for anywhere between $200 and $400 these days, most around the $300 mark, including the case. Slam dunk!

Today's sources include The Electric Guitar Blue Book, 9th and 5th editions (yes, I finally got a new one!!), as well as The Unofficial Peavey T-60 Site. There is a ton of great information there including a forum, links, modifications, brochures, and articles.

Music on the show: "12:04" by Jack in the Pulpit, "Leave the Light On" by My Little Radio, and a snippet of "Strange Day in Mexico" by The Clintons. Please visit Opinionated Ramblings, Show #46 to hear these songs in their entirety and learn more about the artists.

Thanks for subscribing! You can contact me at vintageguitarcast[at]gmail[dot]com.
Take care, and I'll catch you later!

VGC 14 - The Gretsch Silver Jet and Related Models

2006-10-06T11:04:00.000-04:00

Gretsch made so many cool guitars, I could hardly decide where to start. I had to go with sparkly; kick it off in style!

Today, we talk about the Gretsch Silver Jet. But we couldn't really do that without touching on the Duo Jet and Sparkle Jet, at least a little though.
The Silver Jet was produced from '55 - '63 with a few changes and options throughout that time.
Whenever I see one, I can't help but think of Jane Wiedlin of the Go-Gos...I'm sure that was one of the axes I remember her using during the band's early years (couldn't find a pic to verify it tho...). Regardless, it was one of the models that made me want to play in the first place...but certainly not one I was about to be able to get my hands on; not without a tidy bit of cash, anyway! Cool thing is, Gretsch is now offering the model again. You'll still need a tidy bit of cash, but if you can't get a vintage one, you can still get one.

Today's sources include The Gretsch Pages and the Gretsch Silver Jet page as well as Gretsch Guitars. I also delve into my much outdated 5th Edition of the Blue Book of Electric Guitars by Steven Cherne (1998). Please visit the source sites for lots more pictures, links, and information.

Music on today's show is provided by the Podsafe Music Network and includes "Always My Fault" by Korben, "Ready Set Go" by Letters Burning, and "Waste Another Night" and "Miss You" by My Little Radio. All of these tunes can be heard in their entirety on "The Opinionated Ramblings Indie Music Podcast," Show Number 044. The O.R. site also contains links to the band's webpages.

Thanks for subscribing, and please leave me comments or voicemail with your feedback. You can also email me at vintageguitarcast (at) gmail (dot) com.

It's Time, I know...

2006-10-01T11:39:00.000-04:00

Hey there, folks!
I know it's time for a new episode, but I'm feeling a bit under the weather today...sorry. I will get something together as soon as I can. If there is a model you'd like to hear about, please let me know by leaving a comment here on the blog, voicemailing me using MyChingo, or sending me an email at vintageguitarcast (at) gmail (dot) com.
Thanks!

VGC 13: The Birthday Bass: New Instruments and Supply and Demand

2006-09-19T18:34:00.000-04:00

Hey Folks! Today's show is a little different...Ceejay talks about her new bass and the market forces that made for an unusual experience in acquiring it. It's more or less a rant, but not a complaint-fest. It was also produced using the "portable setup," so the intros and bumpers and such are missing.

Suffice it to say that I fell madly in love with this Hot Rod Red Fender Jaguar Bass, a fairly new addition to the Fender line. After waiting a while, I finally decided it was time, and set out to get it. This is the story of that quest...and I do mean quest.

If you'd like to learn more about the bass itself, and I highly recommend this instrument, please visit Fender.com. You won't be disappointed!

The music on today's show is: "To be an Angel" by Uncle Seth, "It's Over" and "Only You Could Make Me Happy" by the Fire Apes, "Friday Girl" by FOLIO, and "Hey Kate" by the Fire Apes. Visit Opinionated Ramblings for links and to hear them in all their glory (Show 42). OK, time to fly. Catch you next time!

VGC 12 - The Ovation Breadwinner (and Deacon)

2006-09-08T18:30:00.000-04:00

Think Medieval Battleaxe meets Modern Toneaxe and you've got the Ovation Breadwinner.
The first electric to feature active electronics and an interesting yet ergonomic shape, the Breadwinner was Ovation's initial foray into the world of solidbody electrics, and sported many features that were ahead of their time. They didn't, however, have staying power as far as production was concerned.
Available only from 1972 through 1979, these guitars are quite hard to find on the secondary market nowadays. I would expect their value to continue to rise.
Today's source material comes from the following websites:

Baron Audio for the specs information (click the dropdown list and select "Ovation Breadwinner")
The Ovation Deacon information page
Guitargonauts.com for the Feb 2001 Pick of the Month page on the '72 Breadwinner
The Ovation Gallery page for the great shots of the "Cheap Trick" Breadwinner
And although I didn't use any material from them, you should visit the Ovation Fan Club Page for lots of other goodies.

The music used in today's show included: "Come With Me" by The Clintons, "Midas Brush" by Poundcake, and "Marilyn County" by 100 Year Picnic. Information on these bands as well as links to their websites can be found at The Opinionated Ramblings Indie Music Podcast page and were featured on Show Number 42.

Thanks for listening, especially if you have chosen to subscribe! If you don't already, please consider doing so. And thanks to John for suggesting the Breadwinner as a show topic.
Take care, and keep Rockin'

What's Your Pleasure?

2006-09-01T04:08:00.000-04:00

OK...I need some listener input.

In checking the stats for the show, it's very clear that the most popular episode was the one on the Kramer Duke (show 6), followed by the Silvertone Amp-in-Case (show 5). These are the most downloaded shows, and are holding these positions consistently, with active downloads continuing even as I upload new shows.

What I would like to know from you is this: are these good examples of the type of models you want to hear about? Should I focus more on guitars from the 80s maybe? Off-shore brands? Lesser known brands? "Starter" guitars? 60s models?

Please leave me comments or contact me with your input. You can email me at vintageguitarcast (at) gmail (dot) com, comment here on the blog, or voice mail me using MyChingo. Heck, you can even comment on the Frappr map.

Let me know what you think! And Thanks!

Pachelbel's Canon...Rock On!

2006-08-29T12:41:00.000-04:00

I think you'll enjoy this!

If the embedded player doesn't work, please Click Here

Shameless Self-Promotion: Guitars for Sale

2006-08-26T14:54:00.000-04:00

I have decided it's time to put a few items from my collection up for sale.

The guitars listed here come from my own personal collection. Currently, I am offering a Fender Lead I, a Fender Lead II, and a pre-1997 MIJ Fender Mustang reissue. All great guitars, original and in good working condition. I'm sad to see them go, but they need new homes where they can be played more regularly.

If you're interested, please zip over to my sellers page on eBay.

Thanks for indulging my shameless self-promotion.
~Ceejay

'Net Neutrality - What You Need To Know

2006-08-26T09:18:00.000-04:00

I'm guessing most of us have at least heard the term, "Net Neutrality" by now, but if you're still unclear of what it is and what it means for folks like you and I (as opposed to big-moneyed big business), here's a darn good definition from an excellent site:

"What is Network Neutrality?

Network Neutrality — or "Net Neutrality" for short — is the guiding principle that preserves the free and open Internet.

What is this about?

This is about Internet freedom. "Network Neutrality" -- the First Amendment of the Internet -- ensures that the public can view the smallest blog just as easily as the largest corporate Web site by preventing Internet companies like AT&T from rigging the playing field for only the highest-paying sites.

But Internet providers like AT&T, Verizon and Comcast are spending millions of dollars lobbying Congress to gut Net Neutrality. If Congress doesn't take action now to implement meaningful Net Neutrality provisions, the future of the Internet is at risk."

This information and much, much more comes from the FAQ page of SaveTheInternet.com, and if you are concerned about this...and we all should be...then you should go over and check out SaveTheInternet.com and get the scoop. Then contact your congressman and tell them what's what!

VGC 11 - Collectors Corner with Rick Russell

2006-08-21T09:29:00.000-04:00

Welcome! Today we are featuring our first Collector's Corner segment, an interview with Rick Russell. We talk about his current collection, his outlook on guitar collecting, and even Celtic and Irish music. Thanks for joining me, Rick, and I hope all you listeners enjoy the conversation!

If you'd like to be featured on an upcoming Collector's Corner, please contact me or post a comment here on the blog.

Thanks!

VGC 10: Valco's "Map" Guitars

2006-08-12T18:36:00.000-04:00

The headstocks may say "National," but these are pure Valco "Res-O-Glas" beauties! The Val-Pro, Westwood, and Glenwood guitars offered from 1962 to 1964 put a whole new creative spin on what was possible for guitar-building materials and construction. Not to mention, some of these models even offered a transducer-type pickup built into the base of the bridge! We're talking 1962, here...way ahead of their time. Although they had a relatively short lifespan in production years, these babies certainly made an impact. And if you can find one today, be prepared to write a fairly hefty check before you can take it home with you. But comparitively speaking, it will cost you a heck of a lot less than trying to score a 1962-1964 Strat, Tele, or Les Paul. And you certainly won't be blending in while on-stage.
Thanks go out to today's sources, the article, "National's Map-Shaped Electrics" by George Gruhn and "National Westwood and Glenwood: '60s Alt-Materials Make Short Run," an article from Vintage Guitar Magazine's June, 2001 edition.

Thanks also to the Podsafe Music Network for the music on today's show. The lineup includes "Getting By" by Kathy Valentine, "Married on Monday" by The Gentlemen Losers, "Wednesday Morning" by Slackstring, "Almost Friday Night" by The Hot Rods, and "Tauntaun Heat" by Tadago Pie. For links to these bands websites and to hear the songs featured in their entirety, please check out my other podcast, Opinionated Ramblings.
And at the end of the show, don't miss the promo for the Musician's Cooler Podcast! If you're in a band, you'll find great advice, tips, tricks, links, and all kinds of other stuff you never even knew you needed...but you do.

Please join our Frappr Friends map, and feel free to leave me comments here on the blog, send me an email at vintageguitarcast at gmail dot com, or leave a voice message using the MyChingo method (links at the left)!

Until next time! Cheers!

VGC 9: Quick News and Notes

2006-08-05T09:39:00.000-04:00

Howdy folks,
Just a short news and notes segment while I try out some new podcasting software. Let me know how you think it sounds.

Announcements: we now own VintageGuitarCast.com, and although it will point you to the same blogspot page as always, it will probably be a little easier to find in a pinch. Thanks to Jammin' Dave Jackson of The Musician's Cooler Podcast for suggesting I get off my butt and get it before it's no longer available.

New Segment - The Collectors' Corner. I alluded to this in VGC #8, but it looks like it's on track now. Our first installment will be coming soon. Let me know if you want to take part! You can gmail me at "opinionatedramblings" (make sure you use the gmail.com address...I'm trying to bust the spammers by not adding a proper link) or send me a voicemail using our MyChingo banner at the top of the left menu. If you've got a mic on your computer, you're all set!

Speaking of Opinionated Ramblings, please visit that podcast for links to the music you hear on this show and lots more! And don't forget the Frappr Friends map!

Think that's it; have a great weekend, and I'll catch you next time!

Vintage Gear in Concert: The Pretenders

2006-08-03T16:27:00.000-04:00

Last night I had the pleasure of being in the audience for a Pretenders show. Let me just say it was FANTASTIC!! The Pretenders are better than ever; totally tight and completely into putting on one helluva show for the audience, complete with 2 encores. Best yet, they were using some nice vintage gear!
The bassist, Andy Hobson, was sporting a vintage 2nd version Telecaster Bass which he played throughout the entire show. It rocked hard! Chrissy stuck to her trademark Fender Telecaster, and Adam Seymour alternated between a Tele and a double-cutaway thinline that I unfortunately couldn't positively identify from my vantage point. He cranked these axes through an Orange stack that was a real screamer.
It was a great show; I heartily recommend seeing the band if they have a date scheduled in your area. And if you go to a show and spot Vintage gear in-use, let me know and I'll post it.
Cheers!

Does It Get Any Cooler Than This?

2006-08-01T15:57:00.000-04:00

Can I just say that I am up waaaaayyyyyy past my bedtime because I am stuck here, glued to the TV watching the 25th Anniversary re-run of MTV's first day on-air (even though I'm trying to tape it as well anyway).

Thanks, VH-1 Classic, for replaying these great videos. I feel like I'm 16 again!

Cool!

VGC008 - The Univox Hi-Flyer

2006-07-29T14:16:00.000-04:00

Wow...I don't know whether I feel more like playing "Pipeline" or "I Wanna Be Sedated." Today's subject: the Univox "Hi Flyer," a copy of the Moserite "Ventures" model that ended up becoming a classic in its own right; so much so that Eastwood Guitars is now making a series of new "Hi Flyer" models that they claim as a copy of the Univox (and not the Moserite!). Not to mention that they look like mighty fine guitars and basses themselves! But, I digress...

Thanks go out to today's sources: Tim Patton of Univox.org for the great info on his site; the Univox review pages of Harmony-Central.com; the equipment pages of the band, Psychotic Reaction; and Eastwood Guitars. Thanks, everyone!

And, of course, we can't forget the Podsafe Music Network and the band's that provided this episode's background music. If you like what you heard, please cruise on over to the Opinionated Ramblings Indie Music Podcast to hear them in their full glory, plus get links to the band's websites. You'll find these songs on Podshow #38, but here's the skinny: "Sun" by The Velmas, "Brand New Sunglasses" by The Jellybricks, "Sunshine Between" by Fred, "Flattened by the Sun" by The Negatones, and "Big Bad Sun" by Chris Juergensen (yeah...there's a theme here).

Thanks for subscribing! Please join our Frappr Friends Map and leave comments here on the blog. And try our new MyChingo service...you can leave me a voicemail or text message right from your computer. Just click the pretty blue banner at the left.

Until next time...Cheers!

VGC 007 - The Fender '84 "Bowling Ball" Strat

2006-07-22T12:59:00.000-04:00

Yup, it's the Holy Grail of the swirl finish guitars. Fender only produced 300 of these guitars, 50 of which were Telecasters. Despite dealer interest, it seemed the general guitar-buying public wasn't terribly interested...this, combined with the turmoil of the sale of the Fender company at that time signalled a very limited run of these funky axes.
These guitars also sport the changes that Fender chose to make at the time to help reduce production costs, and therefore the cost to the customer. These are also discussed in the podcast.

Today's source material is a set of articles by Larry Meiners called "Fender's Limited Production 'Bowling Ball' Stratocaster," and it can be found at FlyingVintage.com. Thanks to FlyingVintage and Mr. Meiners for their work.

Today's music can all be found on the Podsafe Music Network. Here's the lineup:
"Stuff Thief" by The Walkin' Walkers (the music played under our new intro and beyond), "Let You Go" by Sonny Combs and Kitty Kat Rodeo, "College Daze" by The Clintons, "Wonder About Me" by Porter Block, "Aloha Via Satellite" by Poundcake, and "That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore" by COMEG.
If you like this music, you can hear it in its entirety and get links to the bands at the Opinionated Ramblings Podcast homepage.

Please feel free to comment here on the blog or send me a gmail at "opinionatedramblings"

Thanks for subscribing!

I Haven't Forgotten...

2006-07-20T10:17:00.000-04:00

Hey there, folks,
Just wanted to let you know that there will be another 'cast real soon... I apologize for the delay. Hang in there, and keep checking your podcatcher.
Thanks for staying subscribed!
~Ceejay

VGC006 - Kramer's "The Duke"

2006-06-27T11:30:00.000-04:00

Oh Yeah! Can you feel it?
No, its not a Steinberger, or even a Hohner, its an American-made, aluminum-necked Kramer "The Duke."
Produced from 1981 - 1985, The Duke represents the last of the aluminum-necked Kramers, and is an eye-catching, ground-pounding little powerhouse. It will definitely get you noticed. Better yet, it's an axe you can travel with! They are lightweight, easy to play, and you can tuck it about anywhere, even when it is in the case.
Although Kramer did offer Duke guitars, too, it is really the Duke basses that are more well known.
Today, we discuss a little bit about the Duke lines. Our source material comes from the following websites:
VintageKramer.com and Vintage Guitar Magazine. Links of interest include the VintageKramer.com serial number registry (which also gave us the Rainbow pic), Harmony Central's Reviews pages, and Circus Magazine's review of the Duke Bass (.jpg format). Please visit these sites for more information.

Today's music selections are "Americanized" by Atomsplit, "Retouch Me" by Kathy Valentine, "5th of July" by Hotspur, "Questions Asked" by Don't Harass Betty, and "Fan of the Bean" by The Clintons.
Please visit the Opinionated Ramblings podcast page for links and info or download Show Number 035 from there for these songs and more.

Until next time...Cheers!

Dagnabbit!!!

2006-06-25T18:41:00.000-04:00

Wouldn't you know it.
I was just finishing up VGC006, and Audacity crashed. I lost everything.

As soon as I'm feeling less pissy, I will take another stab at recording the show again.
Please bear with me.

Thanks!

Back from Vacation

2006-06-20T13:47:00.000-04:00

Hi all! Hope your Summer is going well.
I am back from vacation, and hope to get another show up shortly. Please take a moment to join our Frappr Friends map...I'm feeling lonely. :)
Cheers!

VGC 005 - The Silvertone Amp-in-Case

2006-06-07T13:05:00.000-04:00

OK, yeah, I'm being a little cheesy posting pics of celebs with Silvertones, but you gotta love these! This one's for all my buddies over at the Vintage Silvertone Zone ...

Today, we're discussing those oh-so-cool Danelectro-made amp-in-case models, the single pickup 1448 (seen with Melissa Etheridge), the double pickup 1457 (in Mick's capable hands), and the nearly extinct 1449 (just discovered this one myself; 1 pickup with a tremelo amp-case).
I don't go into any Dano history as we will surely cover that in a later show on a pure Dano model.
Our sources are a couple of great websites on Danelectro, the Vintage Guitars Info - Danelectro Silvertone & Coral page and the Silvertone Danelectro & DiPinto page. Please visit these...there is a ton of great info and cool pics to peruse.

As always, today's music comes from the Podsafe Music Network. Here's the lineup: "Guess She's Right" by Sonny Combs and Kitty Kat Rodeo, "Save the World" by The Clintons, "21 and Easy" by American Heartbreak, and "Something Better" by Porter Block. A hearty thank you to the bands for putting their music out there for podcast use. Please support them.

Thanks for subscribing, and don't forget our Frappr map. There is a link on the left side. Please consider adding yourself! Comments and feedback are also appreciated. You can gmail me at "opinionatedramblings". Until next time...

Repost: VGC 004

2006-06-04T10:17:00.000-04:00

Came to the realization that iTunes seemed to have substituted the .pdf file I attached to the original post as the feed instead of properly linking to the audio file. For this reason, I am reposting it.
Sorry if you've heard it already. There will be a new show shortly!

Thanks for subscribing, and please consider joining the Frappr Friends map.
Talk to you soon!

We Now Have a Frappr Friends Map

2006-05-25T20:48:00.000-04:00

Hey there! We've now got a Frappr Friends map set up for the Vintage Guitar Cast! You can add your pin as a listener, subscriber, or visitor. Please consider joining us!
You can click on the map in this post or on the permanent link on the left (scroll down just a bit to see it).
Thanks, and I look forward to "meeting" you!
~Ceejay

VGC 004 - Basic Instruction on Guitar Care

2006-05-23T20:24:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone,
Based on the recent weather events in my region, I didn't get a cast out last week. I did, however, decide that perhaps this week we should talk about basic care and maintenance of our beloved axes, so that is the topic of today's show. It's just the basics, we're not going to go into great detail...yet...but definitely good info to have on hand.
Our source for this show comes from Schmitt Music's website. It's available as a .pdf file if you'd like to download it. You'll find it here: http://www.schmittmusic.com/pdf/guitar_care.pdf.

Our thanks go out to Schmitt Music for the information. I'd also like to thank the Podsafe Music Network for today's music. You heard: "Flood" by Jeff Eaton, "Looks Like Water" by Man Bites Dog, and "Walk on Water" by Velvet Chain (yeah, I've got a theme going here! LOL).
If you like the music, please visit Opinionated Ramblings, my indie music podcast, for full versions of the songs and links and information for the artists. These songs and more can be found on Show Number 33.

Thanks for subscribing! If you're interested in VGC swag, there are some items in the Opinionated Ramblings store. Please feel free to comment on the blog or "gmail" me at "ceejay1964." Take care, and I'll talk to you next time!

Rain, Rain, Go Away. Flooding in NH.

2006-05-16T17:59:00.000-04:00

Hi Folks,
Normally, I'd be putting together a show for the week, but things here in the Northeast have been a bit...uh...challenging, lately. We've got a bit of a flooding situation going on, and I've been dealing with a water-filled basement along with many road closures, washouts, sinkholes, evacuations, national guard reinforcements, and questionable dam strength all around. We feel very fortunate that we have been spared much of the extreme situations that our neighbors have had to deal with, but it's still keeping us very busy.
If you'd like to see pictures or a short video I shot, please check my other blog/podcast where I have made a few postings on the subject. You can find it at OpinionatedRamblings.com.
Thanks for subscribing, and I hope to be back with the next show very soon.
Cheers,
~Ceejay

VGC 3 - The Fender Telecaster Bass

2006-05-08T15:32:00.000-04:00

Today's topic: The Fender Telecaster Bass. What started as a companion bass for the Telecaster guitar has become a bit of a legend in the bass community. The first version could also be considered Fender's first "reissue," as it was essentially a '51 P-bass with a new name. This model ranged for 4 years, from 1968 to early 1972. And let's not forget the Pink Paisley and Blue Floral finishes!
Version 2, released in 1972, featured a beefy humbucker and the loss of the metal control plate. These were made until 1979, and are much more numerous than the single coil version.

The pictures featured are from the following websites: The blue '68 is a gorgeous project by Mike Sonneson. Click here to see the page about the project. The '72 is for sale at Katz Vintage Guitars (scroll to the bottom of the page) for a very decent price!

Please feel free to comment here with stories, pictures, info, corrections, additions, etc. I'd love to hear from you! The comments link is at the bottom of this post...

Today's music is provided by the Podsafe Music Network. Please support these bands and let them know you heard them on the VGC! I played: "Come on Brother, Come on Sister" by the Bulldogs, "Kick the Can" by Poundcake, "Alive" by COMEG, "Mainline" by Atomsplit, and "The Fire's Light" by the Bulldogs.

Thanks, and I'll catch you next time!

VGC 2: The Fender Lead Series

2006-04-25T17:47:00.000-04:00

Today's subject is the Fender Lead series of solidbody guitars. These guitars, produced in the USA from 1979 - 1982/3 are full-featured dynamos with great sustain and tonal quality. The series included the Lead I, Lead II, and Lead III (all pictured).

You can have a look at the 1982 Fender product catalog page that I referenced in the podcast by clicking here. Be advised that it is a large file...I wanted to be sure you could read the specs. The coloring is a little off...may be time to tweak the scanner.

Also featured is a podcast promo for the DigiVegas Indie Podcast.

Please feel free to comment here or contact me at ceejay1964 (at) gmail (dot) com with additional information, stories, pictures, corrections, or ideas for future casts.

Today's background music provided by the Podsafe Music Network and 15 Megs of Fame, and includes "She Already Made up her Mind" by The Hamptons, "Second Song" by Ten to Never, "Not Alone" by Brian Buta, and "Just Like Me" by Even Tide. Please support these bands.

Thanks for joining me! Until next time...
~Ceejay

Coming Soon...

2006-04-24T18:10:00.000-04:00

Next edition of the 'cast will be coming real soon...I promise!
Thanks for subscribing! Remember, feel free to contact me or post a comment if you would like to see a particular model covered on the show (or join me to do a guest spot and share your expertise).
Cheers,
~C

Holy Cow!

2006-04-11T17:50:00.000-04:00

Wow - already listed on iTunes! Thanks, Apple!

Please use the XML logo or the iTunes text link in the orange section next to the logo at the top to subscribe to the show!

Thanks in advance! I appreciate it!

VGC 1: The Harmony Rocket

2006-04-11T13:03:00.000-04:00

Today's VGC subject is the Harmony Rocket, a fun and surprisingly versatile "student-grade" fullsized, thinline guitar that featured lots of features and variations. There is probably so much more that can be said about this model that I didn't get to in the show...if you've got something to add, or a correction to anything I mentioned, please post a comment or contact me at ceejay1964 (at) gmail (dot) com (forgive me for the "spambuster" text).

Contributing information on Harmony and the Rocket came from the following sites:
The Harmony Guitar Page
Harmony Rockets & Meteors
1967 Harmony Rocket
Thanks for sharing your knowledge with the VGC!

Today's underlying music was provided by the Podsafe Music Network and featured: Don't Harass Betty's "Your Love is Everything," Nuclear Saturday's "Wishin," The Hoolapoppers with "Phoebe Cates," and "Better Days" by Laurie Jones. Thanks!

2006-04-08T14:47:00.000-04:00

Hi, and thanks for stopping by!

Coming soon: a new podcast about vintage and collectible guitars and basses. The plan is to discuss one model per show, but we will see how it evolves.

This podcast is particularly focused on electrics since I am not overly familiar with acoustics, but we may have special guests in to talk about these since they are certainly not to be overlooked in the world of guitar collecting.

You can bet that this won't be a "Stratocaster" or "Les Paul" only kind of podcast... expect to hear about and discuss some real oddballs and sleepers of the guitar collecting community. And I want your input! Please comment on the blog and let me know what you want to cover. I would especially love it if some of you experts out there want to Skype in to discuss your favorites.

I want to make this a community podcast, so speak out and get involved!

Thanks a lot, and I will be talking to you soon! Cheers!