4 Sound files available at https://yonamelody.com/dust-road-cemetery and https://yonamelody.com/gonna-walk
2013 James Bowen Custom Griffin Open Back Banjo no. 138 with Whyte Laydie Tone Ring, Cherry 11 inch pot capped with ebony and Cherry neck and head, both faced with ebony. 26 1/4 inch scale and characteristically thin neck, making it incredibly easy to play. Custom built arm rest and tail piece. Original Snuffy Smith bridge and Fiberskyn no3 head.
A stunning sounding and beautiful example of the work of Luthier James Bowen. Griffin banjos a known for having volume, but being melodic and tonally perfect all of the way up the neck. The custom inlay marquetry work is superb. A review of this model banjo (which is sometimes referred to as a “High Leveller’) on BanjoHangout describes it as a ‘Rolls Royce with strings’, and all reviews of James Bowen banjos are overwhelming positive.
I am moving towards fretless playing, and whilst it has been a privilege to play this instrument, it is an heirloom banjo, but not for me. The price is set to recover what I paid myself, no banjo like this should ever remain in its case, it needs to be played and heard.
Anyone interested is welcome to come and play it. Please contact me with any questions. Comes with hard case, Levi Leather strap and original Griffin Banjo Leaflet.