Joining the Legends: Myrtlewood Logs Poised for Guitar History
Throughout music and guitar history, certain trees have achieved legendary status for their extraordinary tonewoods, becoming iconic names in the craft. “The Tree,” a remarkable mahogany tree felled in Central America, is renowned for its stunning quilted figure, while “The Lucky Strike,” a fabled redwood, captivated luthiers with its unparalleled grain and tonal warmth. These trees not only shaped exceptional instruments but also became enduring symbols of artistry and rarity in guitar-making. Following in this storied tradition, the “Rain” and “Outrageous” myrtlewood logs are poised to join the pantheon of legendary tonewoods. With their striking visual beauty and unique acoustic properties, these two remarkable trees will leave an indelible mark on Breedlove’s legacy and guitar history, becoming cherished stories for generations of musicians and collectors alike.
Rain and Outrageous: The Stories Behind Some of Breedlove’s Most Stunning Myrtlewood Guitars to Date
Nestled along the Oregon coast, the enchanting myrtlewood trees have long been cherished for their exceptional beauty and unmatched tonal qualities. As one of the most versatile tonewoods, myrtlewood boasts a remarkable combination of balance, clarity, and sustain. Its tonal spectrum encompasses the depth of rosewood, the brilliance of maple, and the balance of mahogany, making it a favorite for luthiers and musicians alike. Beyond its sound, the wood’s natural beauty—ranging from rich golden hues to swirling patterns of black, gray, and green—renders every piece unique.
Cyril Jacob: A Hunter of Legendary Guitar Tonewoods
For over 20 years, Breedlove Guitars has relied on the unparalleled expertise of Cyril Jacob, an Oregon-based wood specialist and passionate advocate for sustainable forestry. Like a modern-day treasure hunter, Cyril roams the forests of the Pacific Northwest, seeking out extraordinary tonewoods. His commitment to reclaiming, salvaging, and responsibly sourcing myrtlewood ensures that every piece is steeped in ecological integrity, aligning perfectly with Breedlove’s dedication to sustainable craftsmanship.
Cyril’s ability to uncover rare, legendary logs is unmatched. His keen eye and deep connection to the land have led to some of the most breathtaking discoveries in guitar-making history. Among these are two awe-inspiring finds: the “Rain” and “Outrageous” logs, which are poised to join the ranks of tonewood legends, shaping the future of Breedlove Guitars and the music world.
The Tale of Two Legendary Logs
In a small coastal property near Brookings, Oregon—an area recently marked by fierce wildfires—Cyril unearthed two extraordinary trees. The property owner, seeking to create a firebreak, allowed for selective tree removal. Among these were two myrtlewood giants that Cyril quickly recognized as exceptional.
The “Outrageous” Log
The aptly named “Outrageous” log was a colossal tree with a diameter of about 40 inches. Its exterior gave subtle hints of what lay within—an intricate interplay of figure and color rarely seen in myrtlewood. The log’s vivid patterns, combined with its impeccable structural integrity, make it a one-of-a-kind tonewood, destined to produce guitars with both visual and acoustic brilliance.
The “Rain” Log
The “Rain” log, even more massive at a staggering six feet in diameter, revealed breathtaking beauty. Its unique grain patterns mimic the appearance of heavy rain cascading through a forest canopy, an effect born from decades of environmental stress and mineral-rich soil. The hollowed base of this ancient tree concealed vibrant figurework, offering a glimpse into the natural forces that shaped its life.
From Forest to Stage: The 2025 Special and Exhibition Editions
These remarkable logs will take center stage in Breedlove’s 2025 collection, culminating in two extraordinary guitars: the Special Edition (will come from the “Rain” log) and the Exhibition Edition (will come from the “Outrageous” log). These instruments, meticulously crafted from “Rain” and “Outrageous,” will showcase the full potential of myrtlewood’s tonal and visual characteristics. They will debut at the prestigious NAMM Show in January 2025, highlighting Breedlove’s artistry and commitment to sustainability.
The Beauty of Myrtlewood
Cyril describes myrtlewood as one of the most unpredictable tonewoods. While its outer appearance offers subtle clues, the true magic lies beneath the surface. Factors like genetics, mineral content, and environmental stresses shape its color and figure. Myrtlewood’s ability to withstand and reflect these forces creates a canvas of unparalleled complexity.
Discover the Legend for Yourself
Be part of guitar history. Experience the unparalleled artistry and tonal magic of “Rain” and “Outrageous” in Breedlove’s 2025 Special and Exhibition Edition guitars. Witness these legendary logs come to life at the NAMM Show this January, and secure your piece of this musical legacy. Don’t miss your chance to own a guitar crafted from tonewoods that will echo through generations.
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