The Evolution of Oasis’ Guitars: What to Expect on the Upcoming Reunion Tour

As Oasis gears up for their highly anticipated reunion tour, fans are buzzing not just about the setlist and possible new material, but also about the guitars that shaped the band's iconic sound. From their early days in the 1990s to their last tour in the late 2000s, Noel Gallagher's choice of guitars has been as crucial to Oasis’s sound as his songwriting.

The Early Days: The Classic Sound

When Oasis burst onto the scene in the early '90s, they brought with them a raw, electrifying sound characterized by Noel Gallagher’s choice of guitars. One of the standout instruments from this era was his Gibson Les Paul Standard, known for its rich, warm tone that became a hallmark of the band's sound. The Les Paul, with its chunky neck and powerful pickups, perfectly complemented Noel's aggressive playing style and the band's anthemic rock songs.

Alongside the Les Paul, Gallagher often used a Gibson ES-355, a semi-hollow body guitar that added a distinctive edge to tracks like "Wonderwall" and "Don't Look Back in Anger." This guitar’s ability to produce a clean, resonant tone made it a staple for the band’s more melodic tracks.

The 'Be Here Now' Era: Shifting Gears

As Oasis transitioned into the late '90s and early 2000s, their sound evolved, and so did Gallagher's guitar collection. During the recording of "Be Here Now," Gallagher’s use of a Rickenbacker 330 became more prominent. This guitar’s jangly, bright sound brought a new dimension to tracks and showcased Gallagher’s versatility.

Another notable addition to his arsenal was the Gibson SG. Known for its lighter weight and sharper tone, the SG was particularly effective in live settings, where its feedback-resistant properties helped in delivering high-energy performances.

The Final Years: A Focus on Classic Gear

By the time of Oasis’ final tour in 2008, Gallagher had returned to some of his classic choices. The Gibson Les Paul remained a central piece of his setup, beloved for its durability and the distinctive sound it produced. However, the band's evolving sound also saw Gallagher incorporating newer models and different brands, reflecting both personal preference and the need for versatility in live performances.

The Reunion Tour: What to Expect

As Oasis fans eagerly await the reunion tour, one of the key questions is which guitars Noel Gallagher will choose to wield on stage. While Gallagher has not yet disclosed the full details of his gear for the upcoming tour, it’s likely he’ll return to some of his old favorites. The Gibson Les Paul, with its rich history with the band, is expected to feature prominently. Additionally, Gallagher may bring back the Gibson ES-355 and possibly the Rickenbacker 330 to deliver that signature Oasis sound that fans know and love.

Given the nostalgia surrounding this reunion, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Gallagher dust off a few vintage guitars or even integrate some modern instruments into his setup. The blend of old and new gear could offer a fresh take on classic tracks while paying homage to the band's storied past.

Oasis’ guitars have played a crucial role in defining their sound over the years. As they hit the road again, fans can look forward to a mix of familiar tones and perhaps a few surprises, all underscoring the band's enduring impact on rock music. Keep an ear out for those iconic riffs and solos, and enjoy the sonic journey as Noel Gallagher revisits the instruments that helped shape Oasis’s legendary career.