Original Publication Date: May 2, 2022
Dallas - The time has come again for summer which means hitting the road and taking some time to do the things we love. Some people go camping, skiing, or attend a comic con of some sort.
Well though we all have our activities of choice, imagine a comic con filled with guitars and basses. That is exactly how I would describe the Dallas International Guitar Festival.
Trading in cosplay and pop culture merchandise for new and vintage gear, the festival had a little something for both seasoned and novice guitar enthusiasts.
Venders from all over set up shop to welcome visitors from all over Texas. There were vendors focusing on top shelf brands such as Gibson, Fender, Reverend, and Taylor, but there were also a good amount of Texas based luthiers on hand to show off their freshly made instruments.
With so much to offer it was hard to pick a place to start amongst the bustle of people looking to buy, or sell the gear they brought with them. Even we brought some gear we were looking to possibly swap or trade in.
The festival truly was a buyers market as we had potential buyers before we even walked in the door. Just a heads up for anyone bringing gear to sell, it gets heavy fast.
Luckily we both made quick sales and were able to focus on our next order of business, resisting the urge to turn around and buy another guitar or amp. It goes without saying, but it was indeed tempting.
From Les Paul's to Telecasters to PRS Custom 24 models it was like being a kid in a candy store looking at the kaleidoscope of almost psychedelic satin, gloss, and sparkle finishes before us. Fortunately, we could hear the Sweetwater Sound stage just outside where someone was shredding a guitar solo.
There Ally Venable was just starting her set and that girl can play. The music was rocking and bluesy with face melting guitar riffs from the front woman and vocalist.
Venable is a Texas based musician from Kilgore who started music at the age of 12. Since then she has been recognized as a guitarist by publications like Guitar World and Premier Guitar.
A fast rising player, fans are anticipating the release of her next solo album "Real Gone" which is said to feature renowned guitarists Buddy Guy and Joe Bonamassa. To summarize her performance in a single word, fire.
Soon after it was Andy Timmons who wowed fans with his fast paced and technically dazzling solos. Timmons has been on the music for some years and has been recognized by various music publications and brands who have put Timmons signature models.
Backstage we also met up with Wes Jeans who is a guitar powerhouse in his own right. Being around so many guitarists who boast very impressive resume's was a privilege that was made possible by Sweetwater Sound whom we also gathered some social media content for at the event.
Back inside the droves of gear heads browsing the booths remained, each looking through the various isles of instruments. Among the vendors on hand were Reverend Guitars who had an impressive display.
Those who attended got to do more than just look of course. Many were more than eager to test out the products that were on display, and also show off their chops.
The Dallas International Guitar Festival is definitely a must see for any musician in the area. If you are looking for some new gear, looking to trade, or get something new, you are sure to find something you like.
Even if you are not there to buy or sell, the truth is simply looking around is entertaining enough for most musicians. With 2023 fast approaching, we wait in anticipation to see what the festival will bring us next year.
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