Acoustic Blue

Acoustic Blue has quickly become the 'talk of the town' with Corey Zink, Shaun Batho, Mike VanAlstyne and Bear Acker hitting the stage. Bear's greatest musical influence was his Grandfather, who gave him his beginning bluegrass notes. This knowledge along with 34 years of stage experience allows Bear to put across a great realm of traditional songs. Although known for his solid Bass playing and sweet baritone lines, he is no stranger to a wide range of other instruments. In fact, he is a great educator for the other members. Mike's dynamic banjo style is developed from artists such as Don Stover and Bill Keith. Along with his talents of banjo playing, Mike brings a contemporary bluegrass flavor of vocal abilities. For over 15 years Mike has performed with various bands across the country. Shaun, starting at an early age, has been entertaining by playing guitar and other bluegrass instruments for the past 18 years. Shaun brings a touch of class and drive to the group, his style of guitar playing has been compared to Carter Stanley, Jimmy Martin, and Del McCoury. Corey brings to the group a vocal style that favors traditional country. Audiences are pleasantly surprised to hear a George Jones approach to bluegrass music. For a young musician, Corey's mandolin playing conveys a unique style, strongly influenced by his country roots. The combined experience that Acoustic Blue portrays, illustrates a classy and dynamic performance. You can always expect to hear some old favorites with a new twist. Acoustic Blue invites a wide range of fans. Their goal, as a group, is to continue growing and winning the interests of many.