"Energy is what it's about. Energy in the music, energy on the stage… people seek energy from other people, and that's why they go to see and hear live music." says Andy. "People come to see the 8-string guitar from curiosity and they definitely respond positively to the energy."

Looks of amazement are frequent on the faces of newcomers to Andy's show. While looking for the organ or bass player, they slowly realize that Andy is covering both bases at once. "This guitar opens up worlds of possibilities. Every day I find a new avenue to explore."

Built by Ralph Novak of Novax Guitars, the Charlie Hunter model 8-string guitar is a jazzer's dream. Two courses of strings, 3 bass and 5 guitar, each have their own set of pickups with separate outputs. The separate outputs go to a bass and a guitar amp each. The setup lets Andy walk bass lines and hold down guitar parts or organ-esque chords, both with incredible tones.

Novax guitars are at www.novaxguitars.com.