Singer/songwriter Dar Williams will perform in concert at Fairfield University's Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts on Thursday, Oct. 4, at 8 p.m. Also on the program is Jeffrey Gaines, another singer/songwriter who will open for Dar Williams.

One of the most acclaimed and evocative artists of her generation, Williams crafts tunes that resonate with passion and integrity. On her new CD, "The Green World," (her fourth solo outing and first since 1997), Williams pushes her art to the next level with a collection of songs that are personal, dynamic and poignant. The rich vibrant sounds of this newest work showcase her characteristically thoughtful lyrics with an ambition and reach not yet heard from her.

After college in the early '90s, Williams launched her music career on the Boston-Cambridge coffeehouse folk circuit. In 1994 she recorded her first collection of songs, "The Honesty Room," followed by "Mortal City" and then by "End of the Summer" which was lauded by "People" magazine and received widespread critical notice.

Throughout her career Williams has shunned cliched and superficial expression in favor of digging deeper. She aspires to an artistry that not only entertains but also informs and inspires - where the personal intersects with the political, where beauty blooms from the darkness, where journeys through discord lead to clarity.

Jeffrey Gaines grew up listening to the Clash, Elvis Costello, Joe Jackson and the Jam. After high school he became a career musician, eventually signing with Chrysalls Records which released his debut album in 1992. Earning critical praise, he drew comparisons to Tracy Chapman, Joni Mitchell and Jackson Browne. Taking a new direction in 1994, he gravitated toward more mainstream guitar pop. His latest CD, "Galore," was recorded by Rykodisc, on which he was backed by Reeves Gabrels and other Bowie alumni, as well as musicians who have worked with Sheryl Crowe and Bruce Springsteen.

Tickets to the Dar Williams concert are $25 with discounts for students, seniors and groups. For reservations or more information, call (203) 254-4010 or toll free at 1-877-ARTS-396.

Editors: Dar Williams is available for interviews. Please contact Nancy Lilley at (203) 254-4000, ext. 2726 to arrange.

Posted On: 08-01-2001 09:08 AM

Volume: 34 Number: 45