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From electric innovation to acoustic refinement, we consider the deeper philosophy of sound. Jay Jay French’s candid, in-depth exchange with longtime friend Oz Noy reveals how blues and bebop merge into a singular voice shaped by touch and a relentless pursuit of tone. A Fender Custom Shop Hotshot reshapes classic design by blending Strat comfort with Tele character. We look at how today’s jazz masters approach tone across generations, revisit Larry Cragg’s elegantly simple acoustic upgrade, and hear his firsthand perspective on wiring choices that influence feel and response. At its core, this issue is about refinement—showing players how thoughtful choices in touch, gear, and musical intention lead to greater clarity, control, and authority over a lifetime of music.
Jay Jay French
Jay Jay French sits down with Oz Noy for a wide-ranging conversation about tone and the lifelong evolution of a player of rare musical authority who learned to speak blues and bebop fluently, ultimately forging those two musical languages into one unmistakable voice. From early influences to building his sound in New York, Oz reflects on depth, feel, and the disciplined pursuit of exceptional tone. A revealing portrait of a master player’s mindset, shaped by decades of craft, experience, and uncompromising musical standards.
Scott Ulrichs
The Fender Custom Shop Limited Edition Hotshot blends hardtail Strat feel with unmistakable Tele character in a way that feels instantly familiar—and surprisingly right. To our eyes and ears, it is 75% Strat and 25% Tele—resonant, balanced, and vibey. It responds with clarity and immediacy, rewarding players who lean into dynamic touch. What makes it compelling isn’t novelty, it’s how naturally it works under the hands, expanding two classics without losing the essence of either.
Pete Prown
How do today’s masters approach jazz tone? Drawing insight from John Scofield, John McLaughlin, Jocelyn Gould, Dan Wilson, Grant Geissman, and Matteo Mancuso, this feature looks at how touch, articulation, phrasing, and ensemble blend shape the sound. From classic arch-tops to modern platforms, there’s no single formula—only intention, discipline, and the work of extracting tone from the instrument itself. A thoughtful exploration of what jazz guitarists prioritize when tone—and musical responsibility—matter most.
Scott Ulrichs
Sometimes the smallest changes yield the biggest rewards. Larry Cragg revisits a simple acoustic modification that meaningfully enhances balance, sustain, and projection. Through years of experimentation and careful listening, he refined an approach that brings out both depth and clarity in a quality instrument. Affordable, reversible, and musically effective—it’s a reminder that tone lives in the details.
Larry Cragg
In response to a recent TQ question, Larry Cragg offers firsthand insight into Neil Young’s legendary ’53 Les Paul, “Old Black,” and shares his perspective on achieving a more natural response when rolling down volume. Clear, direct, and rooted in decades of real-world experience, this short piece reinforces a central truth—subtle wiring choices can profoundly affect feel and musical control, giving players greater consistency and responsiveness under their hands.