In Flying V, Explorer, Firebird ($24.99), a new release from Backbeat Books, author Tony Bacon explores three of Gibson's quirky guitar shapes and shows just how these radical guitar designs triumphed over commercial failure to inspire a new generation of makers, players, and modern metal guitarists alike.

Until the launch of the Flying V and Explorer in 1958, electric guitars were supposed to look like standard guitars with the same shape that everyone was accustomed to seeing and playing, notes Backbeat Books. Then Gibson turned conventional design upside down, almost literally, by using straight lines and angular body shapes, changing the way electrics could look and, in the process, creating a set of rare future collectables.

Flying V, Explorer, Firebird tells the story of those first instruments to hit the scene and goes on to describe Gibson's second attempt at non-standard designs, with the Firebird of the early 1960s. In addition, the book shows how most of these designs were initially a commercial failure, as well as describes the influence of the designs on guitar-makers such as Hamer, Jackson, Dean, Ibanez, and BC Rich. In parallel with the story of the makers is a detailed account of the players who played these odd-shaped instruments and in turn, promoted them to the masses. These famous players include Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society), Edge (U2), and Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick).

The 144-page book also features exclusive interviews with players like Billy Gibbons, Michael Schenker, K.K. Downing, Johnny Winter, and others, who illuminate the story of Gibson's quirky assortment of electric guitar innovations.

Flying V, Explorer, Firebird includes specially commissioned images of every key model and brand, a collection of guitar memorabilia, and a gallery of leading guitarists photographed in action with their instruments.

For more information on Flying V, Explorer, Firebird, visit Hal Leonard online at halleonardbooks.com.