Bluegrass Band “Acoustic Shock” was founded by mandolin/guitarist Nigel Lever. Nigel was born in England and was influenced by the Beatles and other popular bands, but by his early 20’s - whilst living in Switzerland he began playing a lot of English, Irish and American folk music. It was during this time Nigel heard his first Bluegrass band and from that time decided that was where he wanted to be. He has been rewarded for his dedication by winning two 2nd placings in the Mandolin section and a 2nd placing in the Guitar Section of the Australian Bluegrass championships and also a 3rd placing in the Guitar section of the Telluride (USA) Bluegrass Guitar Championship.

Nigel met up with guitarist Jim Rush, born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland and also someone who shared his passion for Bluegrass. Jim was introduced to traditional Country music via the radio, and grew up listening to such greats as Hank Williams and Lefty Frizzel. Later he was exposed to Folk, Blues and subsequently Bluegrass. Jim played guitar on a part-time basis for various bands in both Scotland and England until 1983 when he came to Australia. It was in his new home of Sydney that he discovered the “Bluegrass and Traditional Music Society” (a group of enthusiastic pickers and listeners who gather regularly in Sydney) and teamed up with Nigel. Jim was particularly hooked on Bluegrass “flat-pick” style guitar - his playing strongly influenced by Clarence White, Dan Crary, Tony Rice and Hank Snow amongst others. Jim has placed 2nd in the Guitar “Flat-picking” section of the Australian National Bluegrass Championships for more than 5 years running!.

The Sydney Bluegrass & Traditional Music Society was also the place which facilitated their meeting with Banjo player, Martin Louis. Born in Sydney, Martin grew up listening to regular pop music but could never find a musical style that he was comfortable with. That was until he stumbled across some music from the “Hamilton County Bluegrass Band” (a New Zealand based band). Martin became hooked on the sound of the Banjo and at the seemingly late age of 23 figured it wasn't too late to learn. His influences include Don Reno and Earl Scruggs. He’s an exceptionally clean and sensitive player with a true traditional feel and this shows with two wins and a number of 2nd and 3rd placings in the Banjo section of the Australian National Bluegrass Championships.

Originally a 3-piece, the band only added a bass player when necessary or when funds allowed and as such have worked with various well-known bass players such as Bruce Packard and Liz Frencham or Michael Vidal, but in the last few years they have found it necessary to obtain a full -time Double Bass player. This role has now been filled by Quentin Fraser, who not only plays a great Bass, but is also a top class Guitarist and Dobro player.The band also adds Fiddle players when funding permits, and has used well known players such as Marcus Holden and Andrew Clermont. Acoustic Shock play a great mix of traditional Bluegrass music, along with some swing, more contemporary bluegrass tunes and even some originals. They have been invited in the past to play at various Folk and Bluegrass Festivals throughout Australia, including Maleny and National Folk Festivals and appear regularly at the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

More recently they are often joined by singer Karen Lynne. Karen has always enjoyed singing Bluegrass, however due to the limited Australian Bluegrass market, is more well known in the Country and Folk music genres. Her debut album "Labour Of Love" showcases her ability to gently cross between the folk, Country and Bluegrass styles and make it substantially different from the average Australian Country Music album. Her influences are vast - from Judith Durham to Mary Black, from Emmy Lou Harris to Dolly Parton. Specifically in Bluegrass her favourites include Alison Krauss, Clair Lynch, Lyn Morris, Dale Ann Bradley & Rhonda Vincent.

Acoustic Shock are available for all types of functions- from clubs, pubs, festivals, private parties and corporate functions. As a band they have previously supported touring US Bluegrass players Tom Paxton, the Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer Duo and Walden Dahl and Paul Shelasky and as instrumentalists they have played with visiting artists Tom T. Hall Lyn Morris. They have released two earlier cassette recordings “Picker’s Choice” and “Shocking”, both albums which have been released in limited run as a double CD set. "Shocking" is also available at the moment as a special "Collectors Item" CD for $25.

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