Talking With Greg Carmichael (Acoustic Alchemy) – October 5, 2026
Myron’s at The Smith Center, October 8-9
What started with Red Dust and Spanish Lace was never supposed to become a long-running musical adventure. In fact, Acoustic Alchemy guitarist Greg Carmichael originally thought that recording the album might be the end of the story.
Instead, it was just the beginning.
On this episode of “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” I talk with Greg Carmichael about the remarkable journey of Acoustic Alchemy, the band’s distinctive blend of steel-string and nylon-string guitars, and why he always wanted to be part of a band rather than perform as a solo artist.
On this episode of “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” I talk with Greg Carmichael about the remarkable journey of Acoustic Alchemy, the band’s distinctive blend of steel-string and nylon-string guitars, and why he always wanted to be part of a band rather than perform as a solo artist.
We talk about their very first track, “Mr. Chow,” their first American gig in Dallas, and the unexpected musical adventure involving Richard Branson. Greg also discusses the evolution from working with record companies to producing Acoustic Alchemy’s own albums—and what that creative freedom means for the music.
Acoustic Alchemy is known for creating what Greg describes as “songs without words”—highly melodic, almost cinematic instrumental pieces that tell stories without lyrics. Their catalog is almost entirely original, with the notable exception of their interpretation of “Take Five.”
And here's something that might surprise you: despite the freedom and spontaneity of their live performances, Acoustic Alchemy doesn't typically improvise when recording its songs. Greg explains why—and how those same compositions can stretch and evolve when performed in concert.
We also talk about Greg's favorite Acoustic Alchemy album, Back On The Case, and the enduring appeal of a band that has built a career around melody, musicianship and an unmistakable sound.
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