Dirk Schelenz is the rhythm guitarist in Andre Hermlin's Swing Dance Orchestra from Berlin. The orchestra is dedicated to reproducing the authentic orchestral swing of the 30s and 40s, mainly with US repertoire.
The faithful reproduction of this style starts with the instruments and extends to the orchestra's entire equipment in the style of the 1940s. That is why Dirk Schelenz ordered a J18X without cutaway, which exactly matches the instruments of his colleagues and the style of the orchestra.
The instrument must be able to stand up to the demands of being played unamplified in the band, as was customary before pickups were introduced to amplify string instruments.
Andrej Hermlin and the musicians of the band are very impressed by the sound of Dirk Schelenz's guitar and confirm that the instrument fulfills its task to the fullest satisfaction. If you want to see for yourself, you should listen to a concert by this fabulous big band.