Well, the only thing I would question is the redwood, it being a soft wood. But I do understand where his mind was in making a unique hand made instrument using California wood and with a California theme. Of course, Ukuleles being a Hawaian instrument, but very popular in southern Cali with the "beach surfin crowd", Redwood is a Northern Cali thing, lol.. But, I do think his head was in the right place in the design of it, with the redwood exception. Maybe he is dumping it beause he found redwood isn't the best wood for an instrument. He did think about that by putting a carbon rod in the neck, as well as a strip of hardwood to hold it true. So he did at least think about that, and make provisions to remedy their weaknesses. Maybe he didn't give the sound much thought. Maybe it is a sound that some might even like. It is unique, and again, I would love to own it, just for that, and the different sound even if not traditional. The marketing may also be over the top some, because maybe he is proud of what he created? Dunno, but when I build something unique, and know the craftsmanship is good, I might tend to brag some too, even if others don't see what I do. And of course they won't, because it wasn't their hands that built it. It is an accomplishment, and worthy to own IMHO. I always look past the hype anyone puts in any add for anything they are trying to sell. That is salesmanship, and I just look past that part, and look at the item and let it speak for itself, no matter what it is.. Just sayin..