The Gibson ES335 (ES standing for electric-spanish) was a wonderful contender against the Fender Telecaster. This model is a rough-around-the-edges yet sophisticated guitar meant for jazz and blues musicians.
Ted McCarty was president of Gibson at the time when this guitar was first released in 1958. He helped create this semi-hollow guitar. You hear that right, by the way. Semi-hollow! The Gibson ES335 has two hollow sections that are separated by a piece of solid maple wood.
It is easy to hear the beautiful blend of acoustics and electric with this semi-hollow body. This model sounds like a warm blend of dark, bluesy tones as well as some brighter rock and jazz ones.