Named in honor of the San Diego luthier cooperative that was a stepping stone for Taylor Guitar's founders, Bob Taylor and Kurt Listug, the American Dream series is a fresh addition to Taylor's lineup. This new series, consisting of three slope-shoulder Grand Pacific-sized models, was developed amidst the operational challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Positioned between Taylor's 200 and 300 series, the American Dream guitars are the most affordably priced instruments crafted in Taylor’s El Cajon, California factory. Following the review of the AD17 Blacktop, the AD27e was recently explored.

The standout feature of the AD27e is its mahogany top, a common element in several of Taylor's 300- and 500-series guitars, as well as in some vintage slope-shoulder instruments. The AD27e combines this mahogany top with sapele back and sides, marking it as the unique Grand Pacific model with this wood pairing. True to the American Dream ethos, all woods used are solid, complemented by an ultra-thin matte finish. The guitar incorporates Taylor’s V-Class bracing and proprietary ES2 electronics. While the design remains minimalist, with a single-ring inlaid rosette and small dot inlays on the fingerboard, the use of eucalyptus for the fingerboard and bridge marks a novel choice for Taylor, easily mistaken for rosewood due to its hue.

In playing the AD27e, its tonal resemblance to the 327e, the other Grand Pacific model with a mahogany top, was evident. The AD27e boasts a tonal "roundness," with warm bass and the characteristic slightly compressed dynamic range of hardwood-top guitars, making it exceptionally suited for strumming and balanced for fingerstyle. Its large body ensures a robust volume, making it a versatile choice for various musical styles. Amplified through a Fishman Loudbox Mini, the AD27e demonstrated a fully developed Taylor sound, indistinguishable from higher-end models sharing the same electronics.

For Taylor enthusiasts seeking value without the need for lavish details or exotic woods, the American Dream series offers significant appeal. The AD27e presents a unique wood combination not found in any other Grand Pacific model, making these guitars a highly attractive option for a wide range of players.