Photo by Ian Ritter
Geoff Achison
Blues Music Victoria Hall Of Fame 2020
Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society
Official PatronBlues Foundation (USA) Albert King Award 1995
Renowned for his fiery guitar work, soulful voice, and genre-blending sound, Geoff Achison is a celebrated blues-roots artist from Australia whose music continues to resonate with fans around the world. With a career spanning over three decades, Geoff has earned a global reputation for his electrifying performances, inventive guitar style, and heartfelt songwriting.
Drawing on a rich tapestry of influences—blues, funk, soul, acoustic folk, and roots-rock—Geoff first made his mark as lead guitarist for legendary Australian bluesman Dutch Tilders before stepping out to form his own band, The Souldiggers. His debut album Big Machine dropped in the early ’90s, launching a long and successful journey across the USA, UK, and Europe.
His playing has drawn comparisons to greats like Eric Clapton, JJ Cale, and The Allman Brothers Band, and he’s racked up numerous accolades for his musicianship along the way, including the prestigious Albert King Award at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee.
Early Life & Musical Roots
Geoff was born on Phillip Island and raised in the rural town of Malmsbury, Victoria—the third of five siblings. His musical spark ignited when he discovered an old guitar beneath the family stairwell. Encouraged by his trumpet-playing father, Geoff began lessons and got his first taste of performance playing in his dad’s old-time dance band.
A chance mentorship with local jazz musician Alan Watson introduced Geoff to the world of jazz, improvisation, and rhythm. Watson encouraged him to switch to bass for a time, broadening his musical foundation before Geoff returned to guitar with a newfound appreciation for groove and feel.
In the quiet isolation of the Australian countryside, Geoff developed his own approach to sound and tone, improvising effects and techniques that helped define his unique voice on the instrument.
From Australia to the World Stage
Geoff moved to Melbourne in 1987 and quickly found his place in the city's blues scene, landing the role of lead guitarist with Dutch Tilders. His talent and drive soon pushed him to pursue a solo career, and in 1994 he released Big Machine, the first in a string of acclaimed albums.
The following year, Geoff represented Melbourne at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, taking home the Albert King Award for Most Promising Guitarist. That pivotal moment launched a truly international career. He began touring the US and UK regularly, often assembling local versions of his backing band, The Souldiggers to overcome the prohibitive costs of touring as an independent artist.
On his first major US tour, Geoff received a custom acoustic guitar from the famed Gibson Guitar Company— a gesture that reflected his rising status. After recording the album Gettin’ Evil in the U.S. with an American lineup of The Souldiggers, Geoff returned to Australia and assembled an all-star local version of the band featuring Mal Logan (keys), Roger McLachlan(bass), and Gerry Pantazis (drums). This powerhouse ensemble became known as “The A-Team”, providing the perfect vehicle for Geoff’s musical vision to truly take flight. Known for their exhilarating live performances, The Souldiggers captivated audiences with their extended jam sessions—transforming tight, four-minute songs into epic, ten-minute sonic journeys that left fans wanting more.
Performer, Storyteller, Educator
Whether fronting the full band or playing solo, Geoff Achison is a commanding presence on stage. His acoustic showsshowcase delicate fingerpicking and slide guitar mastery, while his electric performances with The Souldiggers channel the raw power of blues and funk into a thrilling, live-wire experience.
Geoff is also a gifted storyteller with a dry, witty stage presence that keeps audiences engaged between songs. His sets are equal parts musicianship and entertainment.
A respected educator, Geoff conducts guitar workshops across Australia and internationally. He’s been a regular guest instructor at Jorma Kaukonen’s Fur Peace Ranch in Ohio, USA, sharing his knowledge with players of all levels.
A Lasting Legacy
With dozens of albums, international tours, and countless live performances under his belt, Geoff Achison remains a driving force in the Australian blues and roots scene, inspiring a new generation of musicians. In 2020, he was honored with induction into the Blues Music Victoria Hall of Fame - a fitting recognition of his influence and contributions to the genre.
Artist: Geoff Achison
Record Label: Jupiter 2 Records
LOCATION: MELBOURNE AUSTRALIA