The new Steve Barkman 12 string arrived last week. The guitar is a masterpiece handcrafted by Steve over many months. This is the third generation of the 12 string series. My brother Chris bought the very first one he made and gave it to me. It’s a sensational guitar. Someone with big dollars ought to get Steve to oversee the manufacture of this model cause its a world class instrument with a unique sound.

I write this blog over coffee with Jason Kemp my website brains and international rescue. Check out his blog too, he writes well and is expert in NZ music matters…its a passion of his.

Can’t thank you enough for taking an interest in this blog and for those who even contributed to make it possible to get this.

The pictures tell the story and we commissioned Nigel Yates to do a photo series on the maker and here it is. Nigel Yates has released three books of his photos (Notes from Underground) and they are available thru Nigel so give him a call if you are keen to know more 021 236 2818.

Here is a list of the SB guitar specs. If you are a guitarist looking for a new guitar give Steve a call and ask him for the ‘Luke Hurley special’ …

Top: Western Red Cedar
Back & Sides: American Cherry
Neck: Silky Oak
Fretboard/ Bridge/ Tailedge / Heel Gap/ Logo/ Banding: Purple Heart
Headface: ‘Birdseye’ Macrocarpa
Rosette: Dyed Paua
Pickup: Highlander ‘1p1’
Finish: Durasilk
M/Heads: Gotoh Sep700

Photos: Nigel Yates