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The Promise is Hope and Sam Steffen
The Promise is Hope is the singer-songwriter duo of Ashley and Eric L'Esperance. With tightly woven harmonies, two guitars, and intimate songwriting, they present a beautifully moving, inspired and connected live performance.
A match made in heaven may be fanciful, but the blended musicality of the L'Esperances comes close to validating this old saying. The pair 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 Were Going." Jessica Phaneuf of MVY Radio, said "I listen to A LOT of music, and this [album] would be at the top of the pile," and Sound of Boston said "the set offers something for romantics and realists alike."
In the years following this release, The Promise is Hope began to earn their place among New England's finest emerging acts. They were invited to perform at Club Passim's Campfire Festival (2016 and 2018), the Connecticut Folk Festival (2018), the Hungtington Folk Festival (2018), and have shared the stage with renowned folk artists including Amy Speace, Antje Duvekot, Parsonsfield, The Mallet Brothers and Gaelynn Lea, among many others.
The L'Esperances music marries two distinctly talented songwriters whose sound is shaped by tastes of folk, 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 beloved songwriters of the '60s and '70s shines through his sweetly deep voice. His prose-like lyrics unravel the joys and struggles of life's journeys, and takes what appears to be freeform and make it flow beautifully into well-crafted pieces. Together, the two artists complement each other in every respect.
PopMatters says, "It is folk music, but folk that doesn't find any quick or easy comparisons. Instead, it might be said that the L'Esperances have found their unique path within the storied tradition." Red Line Roots says "I am awestruck with the harmonies that Ashley and Eric L'Esperance are able to blend and spin together. Truly beautiful and moving."
The Promise is Hope's debut was a joyful record, but in a two-year span following its release the two lost four family members to tragic deaths in quick succession. With hearts reeling from personal tragedy, the couple turned to songwriting to work out their grief and lingering questions. This cathartic process resulted in the duos sophomore album, "Every Seed Must Die," a stunning collection of tracks that are a testament to the trials of the human spirit. The album is unique for its intimate and restrained production. The delicate nature of the subject matter is explored through rich, heartfelt vocals laid over a soft quilt of finger-picked guitars, piano, cello, and Mellotron. The retro-inspired vibe is soul-soothing; listening to their delicately intertwined voices is an experience any lover of fine harmonies will appreciate. No Depression declares, "The songwriting on this album is exceptional. I come away from many of these [songs] cleansed."
For more information visit www.thepromiseishope.com.
Sam Steffen is a Philadelphia-based singer-songwriter and a force in the new generation of folk musicians. He is a versatile musician and skilled finger-picker, as well as a prolific storyteller. His songs embody the best aspects of traditional folk while aiming, in spite of everything, to keep the human spirit alive and kicking. Steffen has been writing songs for almost a decade and has a vast arsenal of original music that ranges from the personal to the political. His songs have been featured in academic lectures, political protests, worship services, bars, restaurants, coffeehouses, concert venues, festivals, street corners, weddings, funerals, and living rooms. He currently lives in Philadelphia with his fiance and dog. For more information visit www.samsteffen.com.
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LocationThe Living Room at 35 East (View)
35 East Lancaster Ave.
Ardmore, PA 19003
United States
Categories
| Kid Friendly: No |
| Dog Friendly: No |
| Non-Smoking: Yes! |
| Wheelchair Accessible: Yes! |
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