How ironic Austin, I saw your Classico under construction when I toured the factory in 2011! I don't suppose you took any pictures of mine did you? :-) Glad you like the wood! Mica also expressed sadness that I was going to paint it, but also said it will still be gorgeous painted! The wood grain will still show. If it wasn't for Steve Wood's blue Europa I would not be building this bass. I saw his & fell in love!! I never understood why anyone would want to paint an Alembic since they are known for their amazing exotic woods, until I saw Steve's, then I understood! They put many layers of clear coat on before the blue, so if I ever decided to go back natural I can. But I seriously doubt I ever will. Blue is my favorite color, & I have some themed inlays going in that go with the blue, so I think once you see the finished bass you will become a blue fan too!