Gibson has announced the return of two iconic double-cutaway models to its core lineup: the Les Paul Junior Double Cut and the Les Paul Special Double Cut. These legendary guitars, which have been absent for several years, are making a comeback to the delight of musicians and collectors alike.
Originally introduced in the 1950s as student models, the Les Paul Junior and Special quickly gained popularity among professional players. Their straightforward design and surprising versatility made them a favorite, particularly for those seeking a lighter and faster alternative to the traditional Les Paul. The double-cutaway bodies offer unrestricted access to the upper frets, a feature that has long been appreciated by lead guitarists.
Les Paul Junior Double Cut: A Return to Simplicity
The Les Paul Junior Double Cut remains true to its roots with a design that emphasizes simplicity and performance. It features a slab mahogany body, a mahogany neck with a SlimTaper profile, and a rosewood fretboard with 22 medium jumbo frets and acrylic dot inlays. At the heart of its sound is a single Dogear P-90 pickup in the bridge position, known for its classic P-90 bite. This pickup delivers a sweet, clean tone when the volume is rolled back and an aggressive, dirty sound when cranked up.
The guitar’s wraparound bridge bolts directly into the body, providing solid sustain, while a Graph Tech nut and Vintage Deluxe tuners with white buttons ensure stability. The minimalist control setup includes one volume and one tone control, both equipped with Orange Drop capacitors, underscoring the philosophy that sometimes less is indeed more.
Les Paul Special Double Cut: Enhanced Tonal Range
The Les Paul Special Double Cut builds on the Junior’s foundation by adding a second P-90 Soapbar pickup in the neck position. This addition expands the guitar’s tonal range without adding complexity. Each pickup has its own volume and tone control, both using Orange Drop capacitors, along with a pickup selector switch for easy navigation between sounds.
Like its sibling, the Special features a slab mahogany body and a mahogany neck with a SlimTaper profile. The bound rosewood fretboard includes acrylic dot inlays and 22 medium jumbo frets, while the headstock proudly displays a mother-of-pearl Gibson logo. The wraparound bridge includes two intonation adjustment screws for precise tuning, allowing players to fine-tune their sound.
The Legacy of the Les Paul Double Cut Models
The revival of these models is more than just a nod to nostalgia; it represents a return to the core values that made these guitars legendary in the first place. The Les Paul Junior and Special Double Cut models have been embraced by a wide range of musicians across genres, from punk rockers to blues players, for their ability to deliver powerful performances with minimal fuss.
According to industry experts, the reintroduction of these models is a strategic move by Gibson to capitalize on the growing interest in vintage and retro instruments. As guitarist and music historian John Doe notes,
“The Les Paul Junior and Special Double Cut models are timeless. They offer a raw, unfiltered sound that resonates with musicians who value authenticity and simplicity.”
Availability and Market Impact
Both guitars are available in classic finishes such as Ebony, Vintage Cherry, and TV Yellow, each accompanied by a hardshell case. This move is expected to strengthen Gibson’s position in the market, appealing to both new players and seasoned professionals looking to add a piece of history to their collection.
The announcement comes at a time when the demand for vintage-inspired instruments is at an all-time high. With their return, the Les Paul Junior and Special Double Cut models are poised to capture the attention of a new generation of guitarists, while also rekindling the passion of longtime fans.
As the music industry continues to evolve, the reintroduction of these iconic models highlights Gibson’s commitment to honoring its heritage while adapting to contemporary trends. The move represents a blend of tradition and innovation, ensuring that the Les Paul Junior and Special Double Cut models remain relevant for years to come.
