Characterized by uncommon rhythmic dexterity, exploratory slide guitar work, and a uniquely grooving, percussive style, West’s playing is rooted in American folk, jazz, funk, and rock, described as “a jaw-dropping joyride” by Downbeat magazine.  West’s Duo with fellow acoustic guitar virtuoso James Nash is an Americana equivalent of Rodrigo y Gabriela. 

Genre-bending acoustic guitarist, composer and bandleader Jack West creates highly rhythmic, modern acoustic music.  With his innovative percussive approach known as “Acoustic Spank”, West simultaneously plays drums, bass and guitar parts, blending American folk, jazz, funk, and rock into a compelling new style of acoustic music. Together with tastefully shredding acoustic guitarist James Nash, this Percussive Guitar Duo celebrates the release of West’s recent album ‘Guitars on Life’ (January 2026), praised as “deliciously funky” ( AllAboutJazz), and showcases material from West’s upcoming “Spank Grass” album.   

A prolific musician, composer, and inventor, acoustic guitar virtuoso Jack West is a singular musician whose music is characterized by uncommon rhythmic dexterity and a uniquely grooving, percussive acoustic style. West’s playing was described by The Oakland Tribune as sounding “like something never heard before…nothing short of astounding.”