When discussing influential British guitarists of the modern era, Noel Gallagher inevitably takes a prominent place. As the chief songwriter and lead guitarist of Oasis, and later the frontman of Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, his guitar choices have helped shape the sonic landscape of Britpop and beyond. Known for his straightforward yet anthemic style, Gallagher’s tone is instantly recognizable — a combination of melodic instinct, song-oriented playing, and, crucially, his selection of guitars.
This article offers a comprehensive look at the guitars Noel Gallagher plays, from his early days with Oasis to his more recent performances. Whether you’re a budding guitarist seeking inspiration or a seasoned player curious about the gear behind Gallagher’s sound, this guide covers it all.
The Foundations of Noel Gallagher’s Guitar Tone
Before diving into specific models, it’s essential to understand the context in which Noel Gallagher uses his guitar. His playing style is typically chord-driven, emphasizing rhythm and melody over intricate solos. Gallagher’s sound is thick, warm, and often layered — qualities he achieves through a mix of guitar tonewoods, pickups, and amplifiers.
His choice of guitar is never random. Each instrument serves a specific purpose, whether it’s to recreate the rich, orchestral feel of Oasis ballads or the raw punch of Britpop anthems. As such, his guitar collection reflects not just aesthetic preference but deliberate musical strategy.
Epiphone Supernova: The Britpop Icon
One of the most iconic guitars associated with Noel Gallagher is the Epiphone Supernova, a semi-hollowbody based on the Epiphone Sheraton design. Released in the late ’90s as a signature model for Gallagher, the Supernova was tailored to meet his needs for both studio recording and live performance.
Design and Features
The Epiphone Supernova features:
- A semi-hollow laminated maple body
- A solid center block to reduce feedback
- Two humbucking pickups
- A stopbar tailpiece and tune-o-matic bridge
- Distinctive metallic finishes, most notably in “Manchester Blue”
Gallagher often used this guitar during Oasis tours, particularly around the “Be Here Now” era. It delivered a warm yet articulate tone ideal for songs like “Stand By Me” and “Don’t Go Away.”
Gibson ES-355: Vintage Vibe and Modern Power
Perhaps Gallagher’s most cherished guitar is the Gibson ES-355. A high-end version of the ES-335, the 355 combines elegance with tonal richness. Noel began playing the ES-355 more frequently in the mid-to-late 2000s, and it has since become a staple of his live performances.
Features That Make It Stand Out
- Double cutaway semi-hollow body
- Ebony fingerboard with block inlays
- Varitone switch and stereo output (on some models)
- Gold hardware and Bigsby tremolo system
This guitar suits Gallagher’s need for tonal complexity and sustain. Tracks like “The Importance of Being Idle” and “Little by Little” showcase the instrument’s smooth, full-bodied tone. It also complements his preference for thick rhythm parts and overdriven choruses.
Gibson Les Paul Standard: A Rock Staple
Noel Gallagher has been seen playing several Gibson Les Paul Standards throughout his career. From early Oasis gigs to more recent solo tours, the Les Paul has remained a vital component of his guitar arsenal.
Why the Les Paul Works for Noel
- Solid mahogany body with a maple top
- Dual humbuckers with high output
- Short scale length for easier bending
- Sustain-friendly construction
The Les Paul delivers a powerful tone that can cut through dense arrangements, making it ideal for songs like “Rock ‘n’ Roll Star” or “Cigarettes & Alcohol.” Noel has used various Les Pauls over the years, including both Standard and Custom models, often favoring sunburst finishes.
Gibson J-200: The Acoustic Heart of Oasis
While Noel is most closely associated with electric guitars, his use of acoustic guitar is just as significant. The Gibson J-200, often referred to as the “King of the Flat-Tops,” has played a central role in many of Oasis’s greatest hits.
Signature Features
- Super Jumbo body shape for rich low-end
- Spruce top and maple back/sides
- Mustache bridge and ornate pickguard
- Highly decorative inlays and bindings
Songs like “Wonderwall,” “Talk Tonight,” and “Half the World Away” owe much of their emotional resonance to the lush, open sound of the J-200. Gallagher’s acoustic playing is rhythmically solid, serving as the bedrock of many Oasis ballads.
Nash Telecaster: A Modern Twist on a Classic
In more recent years, Noel Gallagher has been seen playing a Nash Telecaster, a boutique model made to vintage specs but with modern reliability. The Telecaster offers a sharper, more percussive attack than many of his other guitars, which allows him to explore different textures in his music.
Reasons for Using a Nash Telecaster
- Lightweight body for easier live use
- Single-coil pickups for bright, articulate tones
- Custom relic finishes for vintage appeal
- Hand-wired electronics and boutique craftsmanship
Gallagher has incorporated this guitar into his High Flying Birds projects, especially on songs that require more tonal clarity and less overdrive. It’s a shift from his earlier sound but demonstrates his evolution as a guitarist.
Fender Telecaster (Standard and Custom Shop)
Besides boutique brands like Nash, Noel Gallagher has also used standard Fender Telecasters. These guitars have been staples in rock music since the 1950s and offer a tone that balances brightness with twang.
In particular, he has used Custom Shop models that replicate vintage ‘60s and ‘70s Telecasters, including butterscotch and blonde finishes.
How the Telecaster Fits Gallagher’s Style
- Versatility across clean and overdriven tones
- Simplicity in electronics and control layout
- Strong attack and defined mids
For songs like “AKA… What a Life!” or “If I Had a Gun,” the Telecaster provides the crisp, jangly edge that contrasts nicely with his denser, wall-of-sound arrangements.
Epiphone Casino: The Beatles Connection
A known Beatles devotee, Noel Gallagher has also played the Epiphone Casino, a fully hollow electric guitar famously used by John Lennon. This model brings a looser, more resonant tone that suits live acoustic-electric arrangements.
Casino’s Characteristics
- Hollow body with no center block (prone to feedback)
- P-90 pickups for a raw, mid-heavy tone
- Trapeze tailpiece and set neck
- Slimmer, lighter build compared to Les Pauls or ES models
Gallagher has used the Casino during stripped-down live sets and intimate studio recordings. It evokes the retro aesthetic and sound of 1960s rock, which aligns with his long-standing musical influences.
The Rare 1960 Gibson ES-355TD
Among the more exclusive guitars in Noel Gallagher’s collection is his 1960 Gibson ES-355TD. This vintage beauty has appeared in numerous performances and photoshoots.
Why This Guitar is Special
- Vintage tonewoods aged for decades
- Original hardware and electronics
- Collectors-grade condition and value
- Unique historical connection to early Gibson craftsmanship
For Gallagher, the guitar isn’t just an instrument — it’s a connection to rock history. He has often referred to this particular ES-355TD as his “number one” for both live and studio work.
Noel Gallagher’s Custom Gibson ES-355 Signature Model
In 2021, Gibson released a Noel Gallagher signature ES-355, further cementing his legacy. This limited-edition guitar was modeled after his 1960 ES-355 and designed in collaboration with Gallagher himself.
Specs and Aesthetics
- Vintage ebony finish with gold hardware
- Maestro Vibrola tremolo
- 57 Classic humbuckers
- Split diamond headstock inlay
This release was met with praise from fans and collectors. It captures the essence of Noel’s tone and aesthetic while offering modern playability. It’s a testament to how influential Gallagher’s guitar choices have become in the industry.
Other Guitars in Noel Gallagher’s Arsenal
Though the above-mentioned models are his most prominent, Gallagher has also been seen using:
Gibson Flying V – briefly used during the “Be Here Now” tour.
Gibson Firebird – less common, but used in specific performances for its distinct tone and shape.
Martin D-28 – another acoustic option known for studio clarity.
Rickenbacker 330 – used sparingly, mostly during early Oasis days.
Each guitar serves a different sonic purpose, giving Gallagher a wide tonal palette to draw from.
Live Guitar Rig and Signal Chain
It’s not just the guitar — the full rig matters. Noel Gallagher typically uses a combination of:
- Vox AC30 and Hiwatt Custom 100 amplifiers
- Boss and MXR effects pedals
- Cry Baby Wah, Analog Delay, Chorus, and Overdrive
- Wireless systems for mobility during live shows
His signal chain is surprisingly straightforward, reflecting his “less is more” philosophy. Yet, it’s this simplicity that allows his guitar tone to shine in massive stadium settings.
Conclusion
Noel Gallagher’s contribution to modern guitar music is undeniable. His choices reflect a balance of tradition and innovation. From the working-class swagger of the Epiphone Supernova to the refined elegance of a vintage ES-355, each guitar plays a specific role in shaping his legendary sound.
For aspiring musicians, Gallagher serves as a reminder that it’s not just about technical ability — it’s about tone, songcraft, and authenticity. Whether he’s playing a stripped-down acoustic ballad or a high-energy Britpop anthem, his guitar always speaks with unmistakable character.
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