Rupert Wates' music is an eclectic mix of acoustic, melodic art/folk, with flavors of jazz, vaudeville and cabaret. He has released twelve solo CDs which have received outstanding reviews in the international online press and tracks from them have been played on radio all over the world. In addition, Wates' songs have been covered by other artists in the UK, Canada and the US. Two full length tribute CDs to his material have been recorded: 'Crazy Puzzle' (2015) by Nashville-based performer Roxie Rogers, and 'Wide Open Heart' (July 2017) by Los Angeles vocalist Susan Kohler. Both these CDs were initiated and funded entirely by the artists themselves, and comprise exclusively songs taken from Rupert Wates' back catalog. Over 20 recordings featuring Wates's songs by other artists were made in 2016, and more are scheduled for 2017 (full list at www.rupertwatesmusic.com/covers). Despite Wates' British background, and underpinning the universality of his music's appeal, Folk And Acoustic Music Exchange has called him "a prime figure in American music'' (www.acousticmusic.com) and goes on: "This is one gifted sonofabitch... If you're not hip to this guy yet you're missing out." Audiences everywhere respond to Wates' brand of melodic art/folk—haunting songs that ring true.

Opening the concert will be Mike Herz! With an uncanny ability to turn a phrase and deliver lyrics that rattle around in your head, Mike writes and performs in a style that is all his own. Born and raised in small town New Jersey, music has brought him across America and into venues of all shapes and sizes. With several albums under his belt, Mike is always exploring new sounds and arrangements and following wherever the muse may lead. He performs solo and also fronts the indie rock band Part-Time Custodian. On April7th, 2023 Mike released his latest full length album titled "Painting Over Paintings".