singemonkey wrote:
For some reason the Les Paul seems a very egotistical instrument to me. Maybe it's because a Les Paul tends to always sound like a Les Paul with only minor variation. Whatever the case, I always kind of cringe at the sight of more than one of them on stage at the same time. The Les Paul, I think, says, "Look at me. I'm about to do something cool." So (a) you'd better deliver, and (b) the stage ain't big enough for two of 'em.
It's probably because they're so associated with flamboyant lead guitar players, and not that much used by humble rhythm type players. A Strat can be humble or flashy. A Tele pretty much always looks humble, and it's up to the player to make it look cool.
Good analysis Singe. However if I take you back to BC (before computers) and even FM radio ? you'll recall the humble Les Paul himself (what a great player) and wildcat Carl Perkins slinging those wrap-arounds and trapeze models. (Do youtube Carl Perkins'
Matchbox if you haven't done so yet...watch his jumpin' moves....wow ! 8) )
So a Les Paul is for every occasion...but I agree, it got that mucho image in the hands of many a long-haired,tatoo-drenched, fire-spitting rocker fronting a two storey Marshall stack. ?
