Gibson Flying V Custom Shop

Lore & Background

The Custom Shop variants often feature unique finishes and hardware modifications tailored to withstand the rigors of a Tool performance. These instruments are frequently seen bathed in the band's signature strobe lights and smoke, appearing almost as living entities on stage. The V-shape allows for a distinct playing posture that Jones utilizes to create his signature legato runs and heavy chugging patterns, bridging the gap between technical proficiency and raw emotional expression.

In Their Own Story

The arena is dark, save for the rhythmic pulse of red light cutting through thick haze. Adam steps into the beam, the Gibson Flying V gleaming like a polished obsidian blade in his hands. He strikes the first chord, a low, resonant thrum that vibrates through the floorboards. As the tempo accelerates, the guitar becomes an extension of his movement, its sharp wings slicing the air as he navigates the complex riffs. The crowd roars, not just at the music, but at the visual spectacle of the V dominating the stage.

Reader's Guide

Adam Jones has utilized various Gibson Flying V models over the years, often favoring Custom Shop versions for their build quality and aesthetic customization. These instruments are frequently modified with high-output pickups to achieve the thick, saturated tones essential to Tool's heavy soundscapes. Jones is known for using custom wiring and specific hardware setups that allow for seamless switching between clean, ambient textures and crushing distortion. The Flying V's body shape also influences his playing style, allowing him to move dynamically across the stage while maintaining precise control over complex fingerings. The guitar often features unique finishes, including sunbursts or solid colors that match the visual themes of specific tours. These modifications ensure that the instrument not only sounds perfect but also fits seamlessly into the band's elaborate stage production and lighting design.

Did You Know?

• The angular body shape of the Flying V was originally designed in the late 1950s as a futuristic statement, predating Tool by decades.
• Adam Jones often selects guitars with specific wood tones to complement his heavy use of delay and reverb effects pedals.
• The Custom Shop allows for bespoke modifications that mass-produced models cannot offer, catering to Jones's unique tonal requirements.