Jake Brownstein of Eggy Debuts Custom Acoustic Guitar by Circle Strings – A GGF First

Eggy lead guitarist Jake Brownstein marks a very special milestone as he debuted a custom acoustic guitar built by renowned luthier Adam Buchwald of Circle Strings in South Burlington, Vermont. This extraordinary instrument, gifted to Jake by the Grateful Guitars Foundation, represents the first-ever custom acoustic guitar in the Foundation’s history.

The guitar itself is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and artistry. The Circle Strings dreadnought is constructed from some of the rarest and most sought-after tonewoods available, including 100-year-old German spruce for the top, paired with old-growth Brazilian rosewood for the back and sides. The mahogany used for the binding and trim comes from “The Tree,” one of the most famous sources of figured mahogany in the world. Additional highlights include Herringbone purfling and rosette, a neck made from old mahogany, and an ebony fingerboard, bridge, and head plate—each made from vintage wood. The headstock even includes a custom inlay of Jake’s pug, Theo, adding a personal touch to this remarkable instrument. The guitar also features a gloss body, matte neck, and dark tortoise pickguard, along with built-in pickups and preamps, ensuring it’s ready for live performance.

Jake Brownstein and luthier Adam Buchwald of Circle Strings

Adam Buchwald, who helms Circle Strings in Vermont, shared his excitement about building the guitar and collaborating with the Grateful Guitars Foundation. “Thanks to Andy Logan, Grateful Guitars Foundation, and Jake Brownstein for allowing us to build this amazing guitar. The materials that were chosen are from a select batch of woods that are only used for extra special guitars. To my ear, this is one of the best ones we have made, plus it is stunning to look at! It was a pleasure working with Jake, who has become a dear friend, and Andy, who is an extremely generous person that is doing an amazing service to young musicians. Building guitars for musicians like Jake is a dream come true, and I am very GRATEFUL for being the first acoustic builder to participate in this process. Go and check out Jake and his band, Eggy—they are onto something special!”

For Andy Logan, founder of the Grateful Guitars Foundation, the collaboration between Jake and Adam was especially meaningful. “Grateful Guitars is absolutely thrilled to gift our first-ever custom acoustic guitar to Jake Brownstein, lovingly built by Adam Buchwald of Circle Strings Guitars. It was a pleasure to watch the process Jake undertook in selecting Adam to build this incredible new instrument. The guitar features old tonewood that provides vintage tone in a brand-new instrument. It is a tremendous pleasure to connect two stellar artists, in Jake and Adam, and we cannot wait to see and hear the results.”

For Jake Brownstein, the entire experience has been deeply enriching. “Connecting with Andy Logan and the Grateful Guitars Foundation has been a profound experience. Their commitment to nurturing artists’ creativity is truly inspiring. Through them, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with Circle Strings on a unique, one-of-a-kind instrument. From our first conversation, Andy’s exceptional character has shined through. Our discussions on life, music, family, and guitars have been deeply enriching. I’m equally honored to call Adam Buchwald of Circle Strings a friend. His craftsmanship is matched only by his warmth and positive spirit. He is a mensch and truly a master of his craft. This journey has been a beautiful confluence of artistry, friendship, and shared passion.”

Fans attending Eggy’s show on October 3, 2024 at The Echo Lounge & Music Hall in Dallas were in attendance for this special debut performance of this Circle Strings dreadnought. For those unable to attend, be on the lookout for future performances and recordings featuring this one-of-a-kind instrument, a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and artistic collaboration. Your support of the Grateful Guitars Foundation makes gifts like this possible, please consider donating today.