Jack West on Innovation, Invention, and the “Acoustic Spank"

Guest: Jack West

In this episode, host Steve Roby welcomes guitarist, composer, and inventor Jack West, whose unique sound NPR once described as "a whole new sub-genre of jazz." After more than two decades away from the recording studio, Jack returns with two major projects: the stunning new album Guitars on Life (a duet collaboration with Walter Strauss) and Essential Curvature, a retrospective compilation of his best work from the 1990s and 2000s.

Episode Highlights:

Jack discusses his musical roots in rural Alabama and his decision in 1993 to leave rock bands and focus exclusively on acoustic guitar

The story behind his collaboration with Walter Strauss and how they wrote most of Guitars on Life in just one week

Jack's innovative "acoustic spank" technique, which allows him to simultaneously play guitar, bass, and percussion

His invention of a specialized thumb pick that enables rapid-fire triplet strikes in both directions

The eco-friendly PET plastic vinyl alternative used for the Guitars on Life release

A preview of his upcoming Gliss Guitar - a revolutionary acoustic guitar with motorized pitch control on every string

Music Featured:

"More Guitar" from Guitars on Life

"Double Bounce" from Guitars on Life

All music featured in this episode was supplied by Jack West and used with his permission.

Upcoming Show:

Catch Jack West live at the Freight & Salvage in Berkeley on Thursday, February 26th at 8:00 PM for a special double bill featuring:

The Jack West Slide Guitar Ensemble (featuring Josh Jones on drums, Gary Brown on bass, and Lalo Crane on marimba)

The Walter Strauss & Jack West acoustic guitar duo

Tickets and more information: https://secure.thefreight.org/15495/15496-jack-west-walter-strauss-260226

Learn More:

Visit Jack West's official website: https://www.jackwestguitar.com

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