Some guitars are just instruments. Others become part of the story.
For ALEX LIFESON, that story includes a white ES-355 that helped shape RUSH‘s music for decades. Now, Epiphone is bringing that guitar to a much wider audience with the new Alex Lifeson 1976 ES-355 Reissue.
Part of the Inspired by Gibson Custom collection, the model recreates Lifeson’s famous “Whitey” while packing in the features that made the original such an important tool in his arsenal. Finished in Alpine White and loaded with a pair of USA-made Gibson T-Type humbuckers, the semi-hollow guitar combines classic looks with the versatility that progressive rock fans have come to expect from the legendary guitarist.
“The ES-355 has always been a really special guitar for me—it’s got this incredible balance of elegance and power,” LIFESON says. “What I love about this Epiphone ‘Whitey’ recreation is how faithfully it captures that original spirit while still feeling fresh and alive in your hands.”
Beyond the visual appeal, the guitar comes equipped with a gold Maestro Vibrola, a mono Varitone circuit, CTS electronics, and a three-piece maple neck modeled after the original mid-’70s instrument. The result is a guitar designed to cover a lot of sonic territory without sacrificing character.
The release arrives during a busy stretch for LIFESON. Earlier this year, ENVY OF NONE released Stygian Wavz, while he and Geddy Lee prepared to celebrate the legacy of RUSH on the just-launched Fifty Something Tour.
For players who grew up studying Lifeson’s textures, tones, and fearless approach to the instrument, the new ES-355 offers a chance to get a little closer to the source.
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