We've always had an affinity for 4-strings mandolins, but the recent acquisition of a Jean Paul Charles acoustic has been especially captivating. Built originally for friend and electric jazz mandolin pioneer Michael Lampert of some highly resonant Brazilian hardwoods, this flat top/arched back critter is a joy to play, and for its small size is deceptively rich in sound and character. It's very easy to play and runs the gamut of intimate and powerful in sonic capability.

Charles, a French ex-patriot has settled in Salvador Brazil where he repairs and builds bandolims and some unique high-quality original guitar, upright bass, and mandolin designs. A capable jazz musician himself, he's also recorded two amazing CDs in the late 80's we'd like to see distributed again.

Samples of the builder's playing can be heard on YouTube:
Tida Swing Part 1
Tida Swing Part 1

We're looking forward to hearing more from this builder!
Website: JP Charles Luthier
Contact Builder: Jean Paul Charles

Posted by Ted at June 15, 2008 1:39 PM