Friday, September 12, 2014

Ibanez: Artist Genesis



You recall Ibanez had the Genesis models going last year (2013) featuring the RGs? They were basically re-hashed models featuring period-correct features of a particular model, absolutely made in Japan. The extension of that idea is seen here, the Artist/ AR models (T-B):

  • AR1- Flame top + binding
  • AR2- solid finish + binding
  • AR3- solid finish + no binding
Despite the name suggestion, the Artist isn't a signature model. It's one of the more authentic designs of the 70s where Ibanez had their 'lawsuit' models threatening the sale of original Gibson models. The Artist wasn't slated to see through the times because it was only appealing to some players, the rest of whom prefer the set-neck & singlecut popularity of Gibson. In the mean time, the Artists Genesis series are slated for a Japan-only release but with the RG experience in 2013, they made their way to the (selected) Asian markets under an arguably hushed condition. 

On a personal note, I'm glad the Genesis experience wasn't a one-time commercial take. We now know that Ibanez is honouring its past by re-introducing their then popular/ landmark models slowly but surely. Let's hope the range would see those Rocket Roll Vs & Destroyers coming back to life. Not to mention the very much overlooked Radius models. Bring them back, please!

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