Overall Comments

Like the packaging says, the black will wear off pretty quickly where the pick hits the strings and where they are fretted. I don't mind that. Its kind of like faded denim for your guitar.
I'm happy with the tone so far (only have about 15 hours on these strings).
These strings feel different on to my fingers, but I like that too. My grip on the string feels more secure, if that makes sense. I feel like I have a little more control, but sliding is not inhibited.
It's too early to say for sure, but I expect I'll buy more.

Overall Rating

9

Overall Comments

I bought this because of David Grier. I hadn't heard Kenny Smith before ... so now I have a new favorite. They perform as a trio, in different duo configurations, solo, and with vocalist Amanda Smith. Plenty of left and right hand close-ups. Song List: John Hardy; Forked Deer; Tennessee Waltz; Bill Cheathum; Cotton Eyed Joe; Have You Ever Been to England; Song for Emily; Impulsive; Crazy Creek; Wheeling; Me and My Farmall; Amy Brown; Working on a Building; Bury Me Beneath the Willow; Jordan's Reel; Wildwood Flower; Nine Pound Hammer; Big Sandy River; Minor Swing; Black Mountain Rag.

Although there hasn't been much activity on the "Open or closed right hand" or "fingers anchored" topics lately, this would have answered both. I've listened to Bill Cheathum a number of times with Grier (closed right hand) Smith (open right hand) and Rice (fingers anchored), and for the life of me I can't tell who's doing it wrong. ;-)

Overall Rating

10