Introduced by Jackson in 1997, the JJP closely resembles the Gibson Les Paul Jr with a few “modern” upgrades. While it shares the same look (body style), simple layout (one pickup and volume only), tune-o-matic/stop bar bridge and headstock shape as the more famous Gibson model, it has its own identity. Unlike the glued-in neck construction of the Les Paul Jr, the Jackson JJP features bolt-on neck construction. The neck is very stable and more importantly the neck-to-body joint is contoured (cut away) which decreases the bulkiness that often plagues many bolt-on and glued-in designs, offering better access to the upper frets and a more comfortable feel. Another nice feature the Jackson JJP offers is the body face (top) is carved like that of a Les Paul Standard. While the body shape is the same as that found on a Gibson Les Paul Jr, unlike the slab (no contours) style of the Gibson Les Paul Jr, the Jackson has a curved (contoured) top like the profile of a Les Paul Standard. In fact, the body can be thought of as either a “skinny” (less thick) Les Paul Standard body or as having the Gibson Les Paul Jr thickness but with an added thin contoured top.

I actually played this model back in the summer of 2000 when I was on a job interview in Boulder, Colorado. Driving from the airport I stopped by a local music store to drool over some very cool vintage Gretsch and Gibson hollowbody guitars. The store also carried the full Jackson line of guitars which I thought was an odd combination at the time. I remember this particular Jackson model stood out because it looked so small next to the Gretsch and Gibson hollowbody guitars. After picking it up and talking with the staff about my Gibson addiction (I was a Gibson devotee for most of my college years) I asked to plug her in. This was a bad mistake as I was floored and I could not believe that this little guitar could sound so good. Furthermore, the guitar felt comfortable in my hands and was effortless to play. I probably played the guitar for a half an hour or more while haggling with the staff. Unfortunately, that trip I passed on this guitar (hey I was trying to find a job) but I said to myself I would try and pick one up later in life. Fast forward four years when I purchased this guitar from eBay for a great price.

This guitar is a real joy to play and gets a lot of attention despite being a more common (plain) looking guitar. The finish is not only exceptionally nice but it also allows the guitar to resonate (even when unplugged), thanks in part, to a very thin satiny clearcoat. Unlike many new guitars which have very thick clearcoats, the very thin top coat on this guitar, in my opinion, allows the wood to breathe resulting in a warmer tone. My only complaint about this guitar is the small size. The body is very small and as a result it looks like a toy when I play it. But other than that I am thrilled and I have to admit that she is a screamer. Crank this one up and you will be amazed at the sound she can deliver. The only thing left to discuss is the fact that these guitars are often bargains, it is not uncommon to see these sell in the $400 range! The guitar is not really a “typical” Jackson and thus does not appeal to the average Jackson enthusiasts, simple economics ensue…little demand and the prices drop. BUT if you see one for sale, grab it and you will not be disappointed.