Every couple of years, I sell my instruments and build new ones. It allows me to keep the current designs in my hands and on stage so I can get honest feedback. For this instrument, I am trying out a new wood for the rim: mesquite. I recently bought out the stock of rim and neck material from a retiring luthier. It features a lot of this North American wood, normally found in desert climates. I thought I should try it out before offering it to customers. I paired it with a cherry and pistachio neck, dark brass hardware and an ebonized oak bridge. Overall, a striking instrument that is easy to play and sounds good. Maybe we will even get to play concerts this year!