Overview
 
This 2007 Gibson Custom Shop Les Paul R4 in Oxblood is a highly specialized reissue of a legendary "modified" guitar. While the standard 1954 (R4) Les Paul typically features P-90 pickups and a Goldtop finish, the Oxblood version is a meticulous recreation of the 1954 Goldtop famously modified and played by Jeff Beck during his Blow by Blow era and is outfitted with CustomBucker humbucking pickups.  This is not the Jeff Beck signature model produced in the 2000's.
The "Oxblood" finish is a deep, dark brown-maroon that appears black in low light but reveals its rich, reddish-purple hue under direct illumination.
 
Key Features & Design
 
The Jeff Beck Connection: This model replicates the custom modifications made to Beck's original guitar, most notably the swap from P-90s to full-sized humbuckers and the addition of Schaller tuners.
The Bridge: Unlike later Les Pauls with a Tune-o-Matic bridge, this model retains the R4’s wraparound bridge/tailpiece. This creates a unique "snap" and resonance because the strings are anchored directly to the body with fewer moving parts.
Neck Profile: It typically features a chunky early '50s neck profile.
 
Tone and Playability
 
The 2007 R4 Oxblood is often described as a "beast" of a guitar. The combination of the wraparound bridge and CustomBucker pickups results in a very touch-sensitive instrument. It has a faster attack and more midrange "honk" than a standard R4, making it ideal for the blues-fusion and aggressive rock tones that Jeff Beck pioneered.