Vicente Carrillo – 2021 “Gabriela II” Doubletop

Description

The Carrillo family started building guitars 1744 in “Manchuela Conquense” also called Casasimarro. As far back as the 19th century, the town was nicknamed “El pueblo de las Guitarras” the town of the guitars. The instruments are still being built in the same place by Vicente Carrillo the seventh generation luthier of the family.

Vicente Carrillo was awarded the ”Regional Craftsmanship award” in 2009 and also the ”National Award” in 2010. His guitars all have a special sound, reaching a satisfying balance between bearing basses and sweet trebles. Innovation is always a factor in his workshop, utilizing various different construction techniques, therefore being in the constant progression towards a greater understanding of the art of lutherie. Artists who play and have played guitars built by Vicente Carrillo are among others: Paco de Lucía, Tomatito, J.M. Cañizarez, El Niño Josele, Rafael Cañizares, Javier Limón, Keith Richards & Josemi Carmona (Ketama).

Grand Concert model “Gabriela II” is a striking instrument. A very modern design, including an asymmetrical bridge and a bevel as an armrest, combines Spanish tradition with modern luthiery. Vicente Carillo chose a unique set of cocobolo for the back and sides, which gives this guitar an almost hypnotizing look. The spruce top is lattice braced, although no carbon fiber was used here. Finally, double sides round up the modern and sophisticated construction of this finely calibrated guitar. Sound-wise, the solid volume and textured tone are very impressive. Moreover, one of the particularly pleasing qualities of this instrument is the almost never-ending sustain on the first string. Combined with the remarkable clarity of tone, this sustain makes this guitar a masterful instrument.