KoAloha Black Label "Monstera" Solid Koa Tenor Ukulele - very rare!

A 'Masterpiece' isn't a phrase you throw around everyday. I played these Black Labels for several minutes this morning just searching for the right words or expression that accurately put across what one might expect from a Black label Uke. Made by master luthier Paul Okami, Head of Production at KoAloha, these Black Labels are a bit special; Both the Super Concert and Tenor 'Monsteras' we received could be considered 'Masterpieces'. They offer the Hawaiian sound we all know and love but look and feel very much the custom shop upgrade.  

They are built a little differently to the normal KoAloha KTM/KCM range, so instead of the unit ribbed brace ribbed system you find more traditional ladder style bracing on the top and back. When comparing this Ukulele to the KTM series I got a completely different voicing and aural experience from each to what I am used too. The tone is smoother, deeper and extremely complex. Usually, when we think KoAloha we think of a bubbly contemporary style and sound but these instruments exude style, focus, substance and a calm confidence as well as some really warm underlying sustain when you fingerpick the lower strings. 

The little touches add a lot to the overall presentation. The hipshot tuners are gorgeous and you can see the cogs turning as you tune! Also, who knew KoAlohas would look so beautiful with binding? The painstakingly airbrushed Monstera head inlay is a work of art within an instrument that is its own work of art. 

Solid Master grade Hawaiian Koa top, back and sides
Neck: Mahogany
15 frets to body, 20 in total
37mm nut width
Fretboard/Bridge: Macassar ebony
Binding: Macassar ebony
Head plate: Macassar ebony
Headstock inlay: Mango wood w/ airbrushed aniline dye, depicting Monstera leaf
Tuners: Hip Shots
Finish: Buffed gloss
Strings: Worth CT with a Fremont Soloist Low G