The Devil is in It!

dnf777 · #1 03-01-2021, 01:17 PM

A little talked about addition to the studio, but very deserving is a book by John Stubbings, in which he explores the pandemic of GAS, and the cause of our affliction...the Acoustic guitar. Specifically, the American guitar.

Coming from across the Atlantic, it has taught me more about American history, guitars, and music (and a few other things as well) as any semester of history class that Ive suffered.

What struck me, and compelled me to write this, was John’s obvious passion and devotion to his work. Upon ordering, I was immediately greeted via email beginning with “this is really me, not an auto-reply...” asking how I would like the book inscribed, to which I granted full artistic license (see photo). He also encouraged me to watch his videos about the bookbinding process, old-fashioned typesetting technique, and even a history of the chosen fonts. There is a section on his careful packing, and recommended un-packing process as to not damage the book. (Photo of zip pull to eliminate need for knife). All initialled by the author/publisher/shipper, including the bookmark.

I will review the actual book contents in the future and post in the open mic room, but do hope this pertains to guitars in general enough to stay in this forum room.

I highly recommend this to anyone who loves the American acoustic guitar or books about guitars. It is as enjoyable to read as it is informative, from a unique and flavored perspective!

HFox · #2 03-01-2021, 01:28 PM

I also have received the book...just a week or so ago.
I have had wonderful emails with John both before , during and after ordering the book. Mine is also signed with a lovely personal note to my Wife and Me.
The personal touch is wonderful....he is a most interesting Mate. His love and (like we who haunt these forums) passion for the American Acoustic Guitar is remarkable....The number of guitars he has been involved with, and the fine builders he has ordered guitars from, is a book unto itself.
To say that the book is great is an understatement .
I'm about 150 pages in and am truly pleased with the book.
I told John that I intend to keep the book in the same enviro controlled display cabinet as my Santa Cruz and Martin Ramuda......It deserves the same care and respect.
Highly recommend the book and the author.

Silly Moustache · #3 03-01-2021, 03:33 PM

Hi, thanks to someone here making me aware of it I got in touch with John, and received my copy on the 23rd of December.

It is a BIG book, I mean big, and heavy and rather lovely, and he has beenvery particular about the font used, which I confess I found a little irritating but readable with my ageing eyes.

It is very similar to a book that I have been cionsidering for some time in that he has interspered chapters about his journey through the USA and meeting up with many names we (as GAS sufferers and guitar and historists) will know and some we don't .... and chapters about what was happening in each of the decades of the 20th century.

It reminded me of "The Lord Of the Rings" which was the last book that I read (many years ago) and enjoyed it so much that I rationed myself to just one chapter a night accompanied by a glass (or two) of scotch over ice,and Rupert the cat.

Very big,very expensive, very full of information, and very thoroughly recommended!

Dryfly · #4 03-01-2021, 04:19 PM

So how do we go about ordering a copy?

dnf777 · #5 03-01-2021, 04:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dryfly

So how do we go about ordering a copy?

https://orpharionpress.com/

Be prepared not so much to place an order, but rather to begin a process and friendship! John’s passion and dedication are not often seen nowadays.

Dryfly · #6 03-01-2021, 05:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dnf777

https://orpharionpress.com/

Be prepared not so much to place an order, but rather to begin a process and friendship! John’s passion and dedication are not often seen nowadays.

Thanks, I just placed an order for it. Rather pricey but looks to be worth it.

Steve DeRosa · #7 03-01-2021, 06:40 PM

Sounds like a must-have if you own one of these:

dhockenbury · #8 03-01-2021, 08:43 PM

I sincerely enjoyed this book. It was a pleasure to share John's passion for acoustic guitars.

The journey was illuminating, informative, and most of all enjoyable.

Well done indeed.

memphis1 · #9 03-02-2021, 05:57 AM

This looks awesome! Thanks so much for the recommendation. I’ll request this for my birthday!!

619TF · #10 03-02-2021, 08:39 AM

I'm going to request my Library obtain a copy. No way I could afford a book for that price. "Worth it" or not.

Michael Watts · #11 03-02-2021, 02:16 PM

I am biased as John is a dear friend of mine but yes, it is a wonderful book.

Michael Watts · #12 10-13-2021, 06:01 AM

Without meaning to resurrect a zombie thread, I recently uploaded this interview with John Stubbings where we talk about the book and take a look at his beautiful collection of small-body guitars, including the Dave King Parlour that inspired The Devil Is In It.

I hope you enjoy it!

All the best

Michael

BrunoBlack · #13 10-13-2021, 06:49 AM

Add me to the list of fans. I bought a copy (#115) when it was released and think it’s an outstanding book that belongs in any guitar enthusiast’s collection.

davidbeinct · #14 10-13-2021, 07:34 AM

Christmas hint sent to my girls for the monochrome edition.

standup · #15 10-13-2021, 08:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Michael Watts

Without meaning to resurrect a zombie thread, I recently uploaded this interview with John Stubbings where we talk about the book and take a look at his beautiful collection of small-body guitars, including the Dave King Parlour that inspired The Devil Is In It.

I watched the video, really enjoyable. And I ordered the book.

I’m a graphic designer, and besides the topic, it looks like a lovely book.