There’s nothing like the rich, warm sound of a Gibson guitar. There’s also nothing like the price of a Gibson guitar, which is why I don’t own one; at least, not in real life. In my second life, however, I’ve got a Les Paul Supreme, Hummingbird, SG Diablo, and even the famous Flying V. The best part, they were all free - courtesy of Gibson themselves!
On Wednesday, July 19, Gibson launched Gibson Island, making them the first major music manufacturer with a presence in Second Life®. I’m sad to say I missed the launch festivities, which included a live preformance by former Fleetwood Mac guitarist/singer, Bob Welch. I haven’t been able to find any video of that performance yet, but when I do, I’ll link it here.
When I first heard about the island, I was very excited to check it out, especially with the influx of incredible builds I’ve been seeing lately. The island itself it shaped like a Les Paul guitar body which looks very cool from the air.
But when I began to explore the island itself, I have to admit I was a bit disappointed. The island feels cluttered and disorganized. There are lots of places to visit where you can learn more about Gibson guitars, amps, signature models, future technologies, and various Gibson sponsored musicians. After all, lots of things to see and do is important for the success of any build. But the actual structures and layout of the island are largely unimpressive. It reminded me of an older mainland build that has become littered and in need to some design and styling. The free items available to Residents are very well built, especially the guitar freebies, but they come in garishly textured box prims which add to the cluttered feeling of the island.
Also featured throughout the island are lots of video content with exclusive audio and new information about Gibson guitar and lifestyle. With the large number of videos available, it’s easy to spend quite a bit of time on the island. I particular enjoyed the video featuring a performance by blues legend, Howlin’ Wolf.
As I mentioned above, there are about 20 or so Gibson guitars available free to Residents scattered all over the island. Models include:
Gibson’s Hound Dog Dobro, Hummingbird, SJ-200, Deluxe Songwriter, J-45, F5G mandolin, ES335 Heritage, 50th Anniversary Commemorative Explorer, Flying V, Les Paul Classic, Slash Inspired By Les Paul, John Lennon Signature Les Paul, Les Paul Robot, Les Paul Supreme, Double Cut Longhorn, SG Diablo, SG Angus Young Signature, SG Standard, and Les Paul Classic models.
The electric guitars are scripted with poses that make your avatar tap his feet and strum. The acoustic guitars have been left unscripted. But some come with stools that, when sat on, make your avatar sway and stum away. Considering there are a lot of instrument vendors who charge a considerable amount for scripted instruments in Second Life®, getting all these guitars for free is a real treat!
Taken from Gibson’s lifestyle website feature about the island, visitors can experience the following attractions at Gibson Island:
- Gibson Forest: Walk the path and learn about the woods that make the extraordinary Gibson guitars recognized around the world as the premier musical instrument
- Gibson Theatre: View exclusive Gibson movies 24/7 complete with soft drinks and popcorn.
- Gibson Radio: The launch of the new Second Life radio station will play music from legendary Gibson artists and include live interviews and radio broadcasts
- Gibson Rock and Roll Stage: Full sized concert stage for musical performances
- Wurlitzer Cafe: Step back in time and experience the cafe that hosts all the latest Wurlitzer Jukebox models
- Gibson Custom Guitar Shop: You want your own virtual Gibson guitar customized? Come meet Gibson’s official virtual luthier, Myriam Beck
- Gibson Guitar of the Month Boardwalk: Showcasing each 2008 monthly axe release virtually
- Gibson Gear Stores: Second Life visitors can view Gibson branded products, gear, apparel, furniture and much more that are available
- Gibson Labs: Here is where Second Life visitors can pick up their free Holographic Personal Video Movie screen and watch educational and entertaining Gibson videos.
- The J200 Building: Gibson Acoustic instruments will be given away inside this Gibson J200 Shaped building on the island
- The Gibson Amplifier Building: In honor of Gibson Amps, virtual Gibson amp models will be available here
- The Mandolin Building: Shaped like the famous Gibson Mandolin, Second Life visitors can climb a rope to the lookout tower at the base of the headstock or go inside for a virtual free Gibson F5 Mandolin
Gibson has announced they will feature a series of concerts on the island over the next couple of months, but I haven’t seen a schedule yet. So I’m eager to hear who might be performing this summer.
While I’m somewhat critical of the overall design of the island, there’s a lot of see and discover at Gibson Island. If you’re a music fan, or a guitar buff, then this is probably a place you’ll want to check out!
Flickr Set: http://flickr.com/photos/kidmarmite/sets/72157605995664230/
SLURL: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Gibson%20Island/79/53/48/
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