Guitar Journal: Fulltone Instagram Outburst
Massive Attack's Mezzanine Trip-Hop guitars to be auctioned
This week on Guitar Journal, we look at the latest Fulltone Instagram Outburst, as Mike Fuller of Fulltone Pedals allegedly posts another graphic and abusive comment. Also, Trump Guitars reacted to Gibson’s cease-and-desist order this week. Finally, we look at the guitars used on Massive Attack’s Mezzanine, which are being auctioned.
Guitar Journal
Fulltone
Fulltone’s Instagram account has sparked controversy after it reportedly made a graphic and abusive comment directed at Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow.
McMorrow shared a screenshot of the comment, a response to her Instagram reel discussing women’s rights after the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
The comment, which has since been deleted, suggested a method of suicide, although it was unclear whether it targeted McMorrow or another user. This latest Mike Fuller online debacle has already hit Reddit and many other social media platforms today, which could be bad news for Fulltone’s reputation.
Instagram Outburst
The comment originated from the account @fulltone_musical_products_llc, which is reportedly managed by Mike Fuller, Fulltone’s founder. This account is distinct from the newer official Fulltone account set up in partnership with Jackson Audio. The controversial remark has received widespread backlash, particularly among guitar pedal enthusiasts online.
Neither Fulltone nor Jackson Audio have publicly addressed the incident.
This is not the first time Fuller’s online remarks have led to criticism. In 2020, comments he made about the protests following George Floyd’s death sparked outrage and led to a boycott of Fulltone products. Despite an initial apology, which was later removed, the controversy significantly impacted Fulltone’s business operations.
Fuller ultimately moved his factory to Nashville and relaunched the brand with Jackson Audio earlier this year.
Trump Guitars
I recently wrote about Trump Guitars, which has updated its models and website following a cease-and-desist order from Gibson.
The company, known for its Donald Trump and MAGA-themed instruments, some of which are priced in the five-figure range, showcases images of Trump endorsing the guitars on its site. The brand also highlights that it is “veteran-owned.”
American Eagle Redesigned
Gibson raised issues concerning the American Eagle and Presidential series models, alleging they infringed upon its trademarks and the Les Paul design.
In response, Trump Guitars has released new images of its Presidential series with slight design modifications.
Some models in the American Eagle series are now marked as “sold out,” with large banners obscuring these designs. A previous photo of Trump signing the electric version of the American Eagle has been changed to focus on the acoustic model instead.
The website now features a disclaimer stating:
“GetTrumpGuitars.com is not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with Gibson Brands Inc. or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates, nor does it represent itself as a dealer, manufacturer, or distributor of Gibson, Les Paul Standard, Les Paul Custom, or any of their products.”
Guitars Used on Massive Attack’s Mezzanine to Be Auctioned
The guitars and equipment of the late Angelo Bruschini, a key member of Massive Attack, are set to go under the hammer. The collection, including a Fender Telecaster and a PRS, is expected to fetch over £15,000 at Gardiner Houlgate Auctioneers in Corsham, Wiltshire.
Mezzanine
Bruschini, who passed away in October 2023, was pivotal in the Bristol trip-hop scene. His guitar work can be heard on iconic tracks from Massive Attack’s 1998 album Mezzanine.
Trip-Hop Guitars
The auction, organized by Bruschini’s family, offers fans and collectors a unique opportunity to own a piece of music history. These guitars can be seen being played live with Massive Attack on many occasions, including the Jools Holland show in 1998 below.
3 responses to “Guitar Journal: Fulltone Instagram Outburst”
Fuller still being a toxic piece of trash? Who’d’a thunk it.
Wow, what an idiot… Apparently he (Fullyone) has great products but knowing this changes things, doesn’t it?!
every Fulltone designs have equivalents or well made clones at this point