These two cool cats introduced me to the Cigar Box Guitar. With a variety of boxes and number of strings, these handmade instruments are pretty awesome and have such a range of sounds. They can be used with distortion and effects pedals just like a standard guitar. Originating from America, they have a very rich history and musicians including BB King played the Cigar Box Guitar.

Paul Allen has a regular stall at the Sydney RocknRoll & Alternative Markets where you can come and hear him play his rockin’ blues and check out the guitars. Oliver Irving, who met Paul at his stall actually makes these quirky instruments, and as you can see in the video is a wealth of Cigar Box knowledge, too.