For Rhodes, making instruments has never been about novelty—it’s about continuing a legacy. As the company explains, “this is a new chapter in Rhodes’ history, not a new book.” With the MK8 line, the brand returns to Harold Rhodes’ principles of craftsmanship and design, while carrying the electric piano into a new era.
Now, Rhodes has the unveiled the Rhodes MK8 ‘Night Train’, a Custom Shop release created in honor of jazz legend Oscar Peterson. The model takes its name from Peterson’s 1963 album Night Train, one of his most celebrated works.
A statement from the company reveals that the new edition “draws its name and visual inspiration from the 1963 album of the same name, known for its nocturnal atmosphere and iconic cover art.” Visually, this translates into a smoked transparent hood, reflective chrome panels, and accents in “Midnight” Purple and “Freedom” Blue—the same colors that defined the album’s look. Additional details include a pinstriped sustain pedal, black tolex base, and custom purple-on-black logo plates, all elements designed exclusively for this release.
The ‘Night Train’ is built on the MK8 platform, Rhodes’ flagship electric piano. Each model features a precision 73-note keyboard manufactured by Kluge Klaviaturen GmbH of the Steinway Group, a fully analog signal path, and Rhodes’ proprietary preamp with parametric EQ, drive, envelope control, and modulation tools. A true bypass stereo FX section includes compressor, phaser, chorus, and delay, with optional MIDI integration available for those looking to bridge tradition with digital flexibility.
Oliver Harvey-Ball, Rhodes Custom Shop Master Builder, spoke about the significance of the release: “We are excited to introduce ‘Night Train’ as our second Custom Shop release, an ode to Oscar Peterson, one of the greats of the piano world. To honor an artist’s influence with a single design is an impossible feat, but with ‘Night Train’, we pay tribute to a moment that defined his legacy. On what would have been his 100th birthday, we offer our heartfelt thanks to Oscar for the music and inspiration he gave to the world.”
The Rhodes ‘Night Train’ is available exclusively through the Rhodes Custom Shop from September 4 to September 18, 2025. Each unit is individually built to order, numbered, and will not be reissued once the window closes. Pricing is set at £11,995 GBP (+VAT), €13,995 EUR (+taxes), or $15,995 USD.
For collectors and musicians alike, the ‘Night Train’ is both an instrument and a tribute—blending modern craftsmanship with the spirit of one of jazz’s most influential pianists.
