Those who missed his captivating performance at Tryon Fine Arts Center, now have another

chance to hear blues-guitarist, Geoff Achison, at a free special event of the Top of the Grade Concerts Thursday, Sept. 12 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at McCreery Park in Saluda.

Equal parts New Orleans funk, driving blues, jazzy soul and outback Mojo, this is southern blues/roots music from the very deepest south – Australia.

Achison was voted one of the “Top Ten Hottest New Guitarists” by Guitar Player Magazine in 2011.

He’s been a 16-year guest guitar instructor at Jorma Kaukonen’s Fur Peace Guitar Ranch and an exciting festival favorite. In addition, he has been featured on PBS, NPR and CNN. His frequent tours of the US have seen him playing with folks like The Allman Brothers (Geoff voted the No. 1 guest at the Beacon 2012, run by Relix Magazine), George Porter Jr., Randall Bramblett, Yonrico Scott, Kofi Burbridge and many others.

“Achison seems more like a singer/songwriter’s soul in Jeff Beck’s body. He should take his stature in the musical community to the next level with this disc,” said Elmore Magazine.

“Geoff is one of the finest blues guitarists I know with a completely individual style.  I have never seen anyone play quite like him,” said Jorma Kaukonen, Hot Tuna.

This event is brought to the community by Wynn Insurance, Bryan Easler Toyota and Frank and Amy Beeson, as special event sponsors.

Bring chairs or blankets. Food, soft drinks and coolers are allowed. Events are rain or shine and concerts will move to the Pavilion if it is raining. The events are free to the public, and donations to the Top of the Grade Concerts are always welcomed.

The Top of the Grade concerts are organized by the NC Small Town Main Street promotions team to produce events that bring the community together on a Main Street venue.

For music scheduling, contact Judy Ward at judyward@charter.net or 828-674-5958. For sponsorships, contact Cathy Jackson at 828-817-2876 or cathy@cathyjacksonrealty.com.

– article submitted by Cathy Jackson