Interview with Luthier Jake Menear of JKM Guitars
“With acoustics, I find there's a lot more levels to it, a lot more details you can refine and tweak...it's all down to you, really, to get the best out of a piece."
Jake Menear took the formal and studious approach to guitar making, going from a three-year university program in London on to a masters, which allowed him to explore some of the outer reaches of guitar design with Fred Carlson's Sympitar. Following that, he found himself in George Lowden's workshop in Downpatrick, Northern Ireland, where he honed his production skills, learned from fellow builders, and refined his own style during his seven-year stint. With so much experience under his belt by the time the pandemic hit, he was ready to pivot and launch JKM Guitars!
Since then, Jake has been building for gigging players, collectors, and passionate amateurs alike, finding a receptive audience for his beautifully crafted acoustics. No surprise, given their combination of visual beauty and excellent tone, as demonstrated by guitarist Gary Lutton. In addition to drawing on his time with Lowden, he also admires the work of modern builders Tyler Robbins and Ervin Somogyi, and still finds time to craft his unique electric designs from time to time, too.
Quick Facts
Tonewoods on the bench: Granadillo, ovangkol, Pau Ferro
Favorite combo: Cedar and walnut
Workshop listening: Lo-fi hip hop, Agatha Christie audiobooks
Fun fact: Jake crafted the instrument Chris Pine totes in the new Dungeons & Dragons movie!
