Artist Bios

Chris Smither - June 2

Some artists continually reinvent themselves; others identify their muse early on and spend their careers single-mindedly pursuing it, remaining recognizably themselves through a career-long process of refinement, growth and discovery. Chris Smither belongs to the latter group. Leave the Light On, Smither's masterful twelfth album—the first he's released on his own Mighty Albert label—stands as the quintessence of his life's work while throwing in some new wrinkles that reflect where he's been and what he's encountered since the last time around. But Smither's central theme as he enters his 60s is clearer than ever.

ATZILUT - July 21

Atzilut is a ten-member high-energy Middle Eastern ensemble that features Arab and Jewish musicians in concert together to make a powerful statement for peace through shared music. No speeches needed--the music itself is the message! This project exemplifies the potential for artistic collaboration and shared creativity that emerges when musicians representing two traditions with common roots, overcome conflict to celebrate hope and trust through music. The resulting musical collaboration is infectious, joyous, deep, sweet, and passionate. The performance becomes an inspiring statement of the triumph of shared creativity over despair.

Steven Forbert - June 23

Nearly 28 years since breaking into pop consciousness with his second album Jackrabbit Slim and its infectious Top Ten single “Romeo’s Tune,” Steve Forbert remains a master of songs offering clear-eyed insight and plain-spoken, heartfelt eloquence. On his 429 Records/SLG debut, the well-traveled Nashville-based troubadour—who maintains a busy touring schedule of over 100 dates a year — explores his ongoing fascination for Strange Names & New Sensations with characteristic wit, a sense of social consciousness and the ever-present romantic optimism that has endeared him to two generations of folk/rock fans.

Beyond launching an exciting relationship with a new label, the vibrant collection finds Forbert in the midst of a true career renaissance at the wonderful age of 52—a time in his life he reflects upon wistfully on the sly narrative of the up-tempo, horn driven tune “Middle Age.”

Christine Havrilla - July 28

Portland based, Philadelphia native, Christine Havrilla, brings her "well-built, catchy, smart tunes" (Upstage Magazine) back to Bryn Mawr! Touring nationally in support of her latest project, "In My Chair," Christine utilizes the soft gritty texture of her vocals to express warmth and honesty audiences quickly embrace. Named "One of the Top Ten Indie Artists" by The Advocate Magazine, The Washington Post writes, "(Havrilla's) songs are intelligent and moving, the arrangements are incisive and colorful, and, best of all, Havrilla consistently comes across as a confident and seasoned performer."

www.christinehavrilla.com