1981 Everett Kettler A-Style Mandolin

This deco-inspired beaut was made by Mr. Everett Kettler in Vermont in '81. In the '70s he made a bunch of instruments under the Tree Frog name, too.

It was in for some light work -- a level/dress of the frets and some setup tweaking. It's been a solid number 2 mandolin for a local bluegrass maestro and it got a lot of recent use while his number 1 was hanging-out here in the shop for its own spa day.

There's much to admire about this instrument, too -- it has spiffy inlays, a dog on the headstock, wood binding, gorgeous flamed maple in the back, sides, and neck, ebony fittings, and a dry, poppy, loud sound. It's just what you're after in an A-style mandolin if you're a grasser.

I like how the finished has aged and cracked just-so. It gives it a friendly, ready-for-work kind-of look.