NAMM '23: Dean

OK... so this is the latest manifestation for Kerry King, it's a Dean Overlord, excessively pointy & hey, there's a Kahler on board. The thing with Kahler today (yes today, not decades ago) is, there are no ready parts replacement if the bridge requires some looking into over time. Dean has made a very bold commitment with KK considering he's living on his Slayer reputation & currently without a band. No disrespect to Mr. King as he has a formidable catalog of crushing thrash tunes under his belt, some of which are definitely industry standard, to say the least.

Pic: Dean

King D

Good Sunday/ December morning to all. You know that Dean Kerry King signature model that you badly wanted for Christmas? It's available for USD8,666 only. Yes, only. 

Dean KK

Look who's in the Dean camp now. Not being pessimistic but I hope they don't try too hard. If there's any value or tasteful appeal when it comes to all things pointy, BC Rich is the go-to name. We all move on & so does Kerry King. 

PIC: Dean Guitars

Quick Report: The Kerry King Beast V

Was at Davis today to try out some new BC Riches, the above Beast V was one of them. Here's a quickie:

• QC: Great for the money, especially for an entry-level unit like this. Expect some finish stains at the neck/ headstock area, the test model had some at the nut's flip side.
• Playability: Neck profile is grab-friendly, nothing shred inducing. the Beast cutaways make this V-type guitar the most playable in a sitting down position. Default action isn't exactly immaculate.
• Tone: Despite being basswood, the guitar is rather hefty. The default tone is bass inclined which isn't appealing if one is looking for some clarity under lots of drive/ distortion especially from the neck humbucker, nevermind the BSDM models which the manufacturer touted to be above-average. Great guitar to get if you peddle bass notes.

BC Rich The Kerry King Beast V

• List: $380
• Availability: Davis GMC

Beast V

The above guitar is the new Kerry King signature offering (just one example, there are others in its series...), as implied by the name, it's an amalgamation of the manufacturer's (BC Rich) V & Beast models. Some of us might find the protrusion really enticing but I feel it's not visually pleasant... However, if these horns contribute, in any way, to the instrument's playability, I'd be keen to own one. Just have to try one when it gets here, yes?