Christopher Williams, The Promise Is Hope opens

Hailing from Nashville, but nothing like your typical Nashville songwriter, Christopher Williams is a songwriter, storyteller, and entertainer – offering songs that are honest and confessional, yet never overbearing; and performances that engage audiences with an appealing mix of intense passion and humor. With “lush guitar work, and sweet soaring vocals,” (Boston Phoenix) punctuated by the percussive vulnerability of a single African djembe hand drum and that strong baritone voice, Williams continues to be a “hard-touring singer-songwriter and a master at spreading his personal energy out into a live audience.” (Madison Isthmus) Touring nonstop nationally for the last twenty one years at a pace of more than 110 shows a year, Williams has built a faithful following of listeners around the country and is a true independent artist, releasing eleven records on his own label. He is a performer that regardless of the setting, creates an intimate feel, comfortable on stage in front of thousands, as well as in a small living room concert. Williams has toured with Grammy Award winning band Jars of Clay, opening for, as well as playing percussion with the band and has also played with songwriter luminaries Arlo Guthrie, Phil Keaggy, David Wilcox, Patty Larkin and Ellis Paul. With the release of his new full length studio album, GATHER, Williams has written a brilliant batch of new songs that speak directly into the chaotic times we find ourselves in and the need to slow down, remember the value of face to face conversation and the importance of community in pushing back on an ever pervading fear. GATHER is a beautiful collection of songs that creates a welcoming space that continues to grow as you dive deeper into the album.

Ashley and Eric L’Esperance first felt the electricity of their undeniable chemistry at an impromptu song swap. A year and a half later they were married and released their debut album “Where We’ve Been & Where We’re Going.” Jessica Phaneuf, WUMB, says “I listen to A LOT of music, and this [album] would be at the top of the pile.” Their highly-anticipated sophomore release is expected to drop May 2018. The Promise is Hope has earned their place among New England’s finest emerging indie-folk duos, with a live performance that is often described as beautifully moving, inspired, and connected. In 2017, Worcester Telegram & Gazette named them “Best Entertainers in Central Massachusetts” and they were invited to perform at the Connecticut Folk Festival. They have captured the hearts of listeners in hundreds of crowds all over New England and the Mid-Atlantic, and have shared the stage with renowned folk artists such as Parsonsfield, Amy Speace, Antje Duvekot, and Gaelynn Lea.

Their music marries two distinctly talented songwriters, and their sound is shaped by tastes of folk, electronic, acoustic and pop. Ashley performs subtle yet stunning melodies with a classically-trained, but often folksy, voice. Her poetic lyrics explore the deep mysteries within nature and human relationship. Eric’s obvious reverence for the great folk songwriters of the 60’s and 70’s shines through his sweetly deep voice. His prose-like lyrics unravel the joys and struggles of life’s journeys, and take what appears to be freeform and make it flow beautifully into well-crafted pieces. Together, the two artists complement each other in every respect. Their songs are sometimes fun, sometimes deep, and always aimed for the heart. As Eric puts it, The Promise is Hope aims to “write songs that are honest and true … in a way that hopefully helps others see the truth and the beauty that exists in their own lives.”

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