If you’re into versatile tones, killer playability, and that perfect balance between classic looks and modern edge, you’ll want to check out the Jackson LM87 signature guitar of Lee Malia from Bring Me The Horizon. We caught up with Lee to hear about his inspiration behind the LM87, his guitar journey, and why this model stands out not just for metalheads but for players of all styles.
A Nod to the Past, Built for the Future
Lee’s history with Jackson runs deep. His first Jackson? A Warrior in blue the same guitar that joined him on his first big European tour with Killswitch Engage. Back then, he was knee-deep in Metallica riffs, obsessed with that chunky, explorer-style shape James Hetfield made iconic.
Lee’s style has evolved over countless Bring Me The Horizon albums, each with their own unique sound and style. Due to this he moved from drop tunings to exploring standard tunings tuned lower, unlocking new ways to write and play. That evolution in sound is baked right into the LM87.
“My playing and writing have changed so much over the years, so I wanted a guitar that could keep up with all of that.”
Inspiration Behind the LM87
Lee’s love for offset guitars shines through in the LM87’s unique silhouette. The inspiration came when he stumbled across a photo of an old surfcaster-style guitar and thought what if Jackson made something like this?
Enter Mike Shannon, the legendary Jackson custom builder, who crafted the first versions of the LM87 for Lee. Right from the first build, it just felt right.
“We got it right first time, it was that easy.”
But Lee didn’t just want a metal-focused machine. He intentionally chose a P90 pickup paired with a humbucker, steering clear of super-hot active pickups like EMGs. This choice gives the LM87 a broad sonic palette from smooth cleans to biting overdrive perfect for players who don’t want to be boxed into one genre.
Features and Specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Body Shape | Surfcaster™ |
| Pickups | P90 (neck) + Humbucker (bridge) (custom voiced) |
| Scale Length | 24.75″ |
| Neck Thickness | Comfortable D profile |
| Finish | Open Pore Black |
| Bridge | Jackson® TOM-Style Adjustable with Anchored Tailpiece and Fine Tuners |
Practical Features for Real-World Players
One of Lee’s favorite features? The fine tuners on the bridge. As he puts it, when you’re on stage, running on adrenaline and maybe playing a little heavy-handed (his words, not ours), those fine tuners make it easy to stay in tune without the risk of overtightening.
“I don’t know why more guitars don’t have them, I’ve always loved fine tuners.”
Distinctive Details: Shark Eye Inlays & Open Pore Finish
Aside from the tone and versatility, the Jackson LM87 stands out with some unique design touches that Lee specifically wanted.
First, the shark eye inlays on the fretboard, a signature Jackson detail that adds a sharp, aggressive visual element. It’s subtle but instantly recognizable, giving the guitar that classic Jackson aesthetic without being over the top.
Then there’s the open pore finish on the body, leaving An open pore finish leaves the wood more exposed compared to a thick gloss coat, meaning the guitar will naturally relic faster over time. As you play, gig, and travel with it, the LM87 will pick up character and wear that reflects your journey with the instrument.
“It’ll wear in and show the marks of use, I think that’s cool. It’s like the guitar ages with you,” says Lee.
It’s perfect for players who appreciate a guitar that tells a story, one that looks better the more you play it.
Built for Every Sound
With Bring Me The Horizon’s discography spanning everything from metalcore to synth-heavy rock, Lee needed a guitar that could handle it all. The LM87 delivers that flexibility in spades, capable of adapting to any style you throw at it.
Best of all? It’s priced so that more players can get their hands on it without compromising on quality.
“Not everyone’s got loads of money to spend, I wanted this to be affordable but still a really good guitar. I think we managed that.”
A Legacy with Jackson
Lee’s connection with Jackson runs deeper than just a signature model. Influenced by legends who famously played Jacksons, Lee’s always admired the brand for its playability and reputation in the metal world, but the LM87 proves Jackson isn’t just for shredders.