I am always filled with a special sense of anticipation when I know that a new Romanillos is due to arrive soon. I can hardly wait to sit down in my quiet playing room and enjoy what is always a feast for the ears. When "La Renunion" arrived I was having one of those wonderfully hectic days where I barely had time to eat. I thought I would sit down and get to know her for a few minutes and then dash off to continue my very full day. Well, that was the plan at least. A full hour and a half later I was still sitting there completely lost in the world created by this wonderful guitar. Such is a Romanillos. She was remarkably similar to the last Romanillos I was fortunate enough to enjoy, "La Anniversario", in fact I found my description of that guitar so perfect for " La Reunion" that I re-write it here only slightly modified:

Romanillos guitars are legendary and they are one of those rare instruments that are quite simply 'beloved' by the classical guitar world. And rightly so, few luthiers have given so much to the art of the classical guitar as Jose and Liam. Their guitar course for luthiers has become a virtual pilgrimage for luthiers from all over the world, luthiers who are new to the art, and those who are very experienced, all seeking to discover the Romanillos magic, which is freely shared by them in their courses. The book Jose wrote on Torres is difinitive, and few posses the deep understanding of Torres that he has after owning, repairing and reviewing so many Torres instruments. There are many recordings of fine artists playing Romanillos guitars, this recent video of Japanese artist Kaori Muraji, playing her new Romanillos guitar built by Liam showcases the beauty of these guitars, you can see/hear her Romanillos on this clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGT83feJTQI.
Liam selected a beautiful Spruce soundboard, and added a custom set of Graf tuners. The detailed craftsmanship is flawless and standard setting, perfect. The design elements artistically blend in the most tasteful manner creating an overall balance in the visual design that is indeed reflected in tonal balance of the guitar itself. And the rosette, widely considered one of the most iconic in the classical guitar world, the Romanillos impression evocative of the ancient arches of the Mezquita in Cordoba, is a work of art in itself.

Tonally few builders capture the essence of a fine Spruce guitar the way Romanillos does. This guitar is an exceptional example of the Romanillos style in this way. The tonal character is very warm and organic, especially for a new Spruce guitar. No doubt these attributes will only become even more enhanced as she is played in. A convincing and noble blend that 'has you' after the first few notes. There is no resisting it's allure as she sweetly pulls you along to join her on the musical journey you will enjoy together. You really feel like a 'partner' in this relationship, no need to dominate her, to command her. Instead she will lead you, then you will lead her in a dance where both partners are in consensual control. Basses and Trebles are as balanced as the design elements of the guitar guitar as noted earlier, delightfully playing off of each other in perfect harmony. Rich, noble, warm, emotional, expressive are all words that will enter you thoughts as you explore what she has to offer to the player. Definitely she will become some fortunate players partner for life....

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