Alright, let’s get one thing straight right off the bat: this guitar is terrifying. It is officially known as the Kaiju Custom, was displayed at NAMM in 2015, and since then it has haunted my dreams—and probably a few other people’s too.
I know craftsmanship when I see it, and major respect to Mike Learn and the Jackson Custom Shop for carving this monster (literally) into existence.
But seriously, who in their right mind would play this thing, other than on the set of a Pacific Rim sequel? Maybe Guillermo del Toro’s guitar collection needed an upgrade, who knows.
Carved out of alder wood, it’s not just about the art; it also lights up! Yeah, that’s right—its eye and mouth glow with LEDs when you plug it in. You know, because it wasn’t scary enough without the menacing blue light staring back at you.
A Guitar or a Kaiju From the Deep?
Look, I’m all for creativity in guitar design, but this one’s crossing into straight-up Godzilla territory.
Sharp teeth? Check.
Nose-horn that looks like it could pierce through your amplifier? Double-check.
Oh, and don’t forget the deep-sea creature glow that just screams, “I’m coming for you.”
If you’ve ever wanted to play an instrument that looks like it’s about to maul the audience during your solo, then congratulations—your dream guitar exists. The Kaiju isn’t faking it. This thing is as close to a live kaiju as you’re gonna get without a massive budget and a Japanese film crew.
So Who’s Playing This Thing?
The big question: Who’s dropping over $6000 on this? That’s what this beast sold for. And for what? A guitar that makes you feel like you’re wrestling a prehistoric monster every time you hit a power chord?
Maybe that’s the appeal. Some people want to play their guitar. Others want their guitar to play them… or eat them. Whatever works, I guess.
Also, can we talk about those sharp teeth for a second? I get it, metal guitars have to look dangerous, but this is next level. What happens if you strum too hard and those teeth decide they’ve had enough of your fingers? I’m just saying, this thing has “guitar string bite” written all over it.
$6000 and a Fear of Being Devoured
Let’s not forget the price tag. Over six grand for a guitar that doubles as a creature from the abyss. And don’t get me wrong—this thing is impressive. The LED lights, the carving, the paint job—top-tier stuff. But still…
Would you drop that kind of money on something that looks like it’s going to come to life and chase you around the stage?
It’s art, no doubt about it. But it’s art that might make you rethink your life choices, like: “Do I really need my guitar to have a nose-horn?” or “What if this thing accidentally bites me mid-set?”
At the end of the day, the Jackson Kaiju Custom is a work of art—terrifying art. Sure, it probably plays and sounds amazing… especially when it starts growling back at you.
