May-19

With more than 15,000 pieces, the Musical Instrument Museum is a must-see for anyone who digs guitars. We tour the MIM’s new display focused on early electric guitars and heavy-hitter instruments that paved the way for the music we love.

We also speak with Charlie Daniels about his time as a session guitarist, his work with Bob Dylan, and his new blues album. And, we talk new projects with Eric Gales, Ryan Bingham, Steve Dadaian, Emily Elbert, Walter Trout, Donna Grantis, and Christophe Astolfi, then tell the amazing stories behind Zon’s Legacy bass, the D’Aquisto archtop built for any musical setting, the rare British Kitty Hawk Custom combo amp, and Guild’s S-50 Jet-Star.

We also recall the MC5’s thunderous Kick Out The Jams album, our VG Approved Gear staff is ready with thoughts on the latest guitars, amps, and effects, and the Hit List crews helps us find the best new music. It’s all in the May issue, available now!