Elegies: CD
  • Elegies: CD

Elegies: CD

In cart Not available Out of stock
$15.00

My goal in writing the material for this CD was to create and sustain a particular mood. Though all the songs are love songs - some based loosely on classical and Romantic texts, others more contemporary in tone - they also have in common the theme of loss: of youth, of a time and place, of a loved one who is absent or only a memory. AVAILABLE 06

My goal in writing the material for this CD was to create and sustain a particular mood. Though all the songs are love songs - some based loosely on classical and Romantic texts, others more contemporary in tone - they also have in common the theme of loss: of youth, of a time and place, of a loved one who is absent or only a memory. AVAILABLE 06 15 23

'Indispensable...Rupert Wates is a real master' (Patrick Dallongeville, Paris-Move https://www.paris-move.com/reviews/rupert-wates-elegies/)

'...An exquisite album of sensitive songs from a master of his craft' (Rory Standbrige, FATEA UK https://www.fatea-records.co.uk/magazine/reviews/RupertWates5/?fbclid=IwAR08rLIf6OOFAfCOGHqJYlXSVnc16Wp3i0Sp_cVGRaiUU994-Y2ekjJv02s)

'A mesmerising shower of notes and 11 fresh original songs' (Mick Tems, Folk Wales http://folk.wales/magazine/?p=2511#AUGUST_2023)

'A remarkable balance and maturity which places him as one of the best exponents of the genre along with Martin Simpson, Richard Thompson and a few others...Once again a very solid selection of acoustic jewels' (Remo Ricaldone, Roots Highway http://www.rootshighway.it/outsiders/2023/wates.htm)

'I let it wash over me five times in one afternoon without feeling I'd had enough...Beautiful, very beautiful' (Dani Heyvaert, Rootstime NL https://rootstime.be/index.html?https://rootstime.be/CD%20REVIEUW/2023/AUG1/CD67.html)

'Yet another example of the flawless music that flows from...this artist...a talent of real substance' (Paul McGee, Lonesome Highway https://www.lonesomehighway.com/music-reviews/2023/9/25/nblh2dckqn5tozvcxqp0ginqekfmbp)

'A hyptnotic listening experience' (Mike Davies, Folk Radio UK https://www.folkradio.co.uk/2023/09/rupert-wates-elegies-album-review/?fbclid=IwAR0FTroa25IZ_Q9pc9hxvUXrXpDOTUI6c0LK-WOxcdPtKmqwE7S8REyFa-M)

'A genuine virtuoso...who plays with the kind of subtelty you won't be hearing on mainstream radio (4 stars)' (Allan Mckay, Music Riot UK http://musicriot.co.uk/album/elegies-rupert-wates/)

'There's a glorious simplicity to the instrumentation...which frame(s) the lyrics perfectly' (Jonathan Aird, https://americana-uk.com)

'It's been a long time since I was so impressed by an album...Rupert's songs are so good they can easily compete with the best work of Nick Drake and John Martyn. Buy this touchingly beautiful album and immerse yourself completely in Rupert Wates' warm sournds!' (Peter Marinus, Bluestown Music Netherlands https://www.bluestownmusic.nl/review-rupert-wates-elegies/)

'Beautifully crafted...Lovers of first rate string work in the pure folk tradition will not be disappointed' (4 stars) (Cis Van Looy, Written In Music https://writteninmusic.com/albumrecensie/rupert-wates-elegies/)

'...Eloquent and genuine...Graceful songs performed simply but effectively' (Martin Raybould, Whisperin And Hollerin http://www.whisperinandhollerin.com/reviews/review.asp?id=16651)

'We can't imagine that there is a single fan of artists like John Martyn and Nick Drake who will not be impressed by this beautiful autumn album.' (4 stars out of 5) Pieter Wijnstekers, Heaven Magazine (Netherlands)

'Rupert Wates' astonishing talents as a guitarist and singer-songwriter are showcased to perfection in this elegant and graceful set of songs' (Julie Cruickshank, https://pennyblackmusic.co.uk/)

'Songs that relax the body but massage those parts of the brain most receptive to beauty, balance and harmony...Some of the best and most inspired melodies I have heard in a long time' (Eloy Perez, Ruta 66 Discomatico https://www.ruta66.es/2024/01/discomatico/rupert-wates-elegies-bite-music-ltd/)

'A wonderful piece of work' (Ronand Valstar, Real Roots Cafe https://www.realrootscafe.com/2023/09/17/rupert-wates-elegies/)

Read more…
Instrumental : CD
  • Instrumental : CD

Instrumental : CD

In cart Not available Out of stock
$15.00

An instrumental album showcasing Rupert Wates' guitar virtuosity, featuring classical pieces by Bach, Mozart, Satie, some flamenco, and original compositions.

Read more…
For The People : CD
  • For The People : CD

For The People : CD

In cart Not available Out of stock
$15.00

Stream and download at www.rupertwates.bandcamp.com

Featuring original songs based on old English folk tales, this is a love song to humanity: music by the people, of the people, for the people

'Paradoxically traditional yet very original...Stunning guitar work (of course), rich vocals and stellar songwriting' (Anne Sandstrom, songwriter,

Stream and download at www.rupertwates.bandcamp.com

Featuring original songs based on old English folk tales, this is a love song to humanity: music by the people, of the people, for the people

'Paradoxically traditional yet very original...Stunning guitar work (of course), rich vocals and stellar songwriting' (Anne Sandstrom, songwriter, Massachusetts)

"Rich, deep, magnificent" (Catesby Jones, songwriter, Nashville)

'Brilliant musicianship and lyrics' (Bob Leslie, Transatlantic Conversations, www.celticmusicradio.net)

'He expertly marries intricate guitar parts to beguiling melodies to create a fascinating collection of songs that pays tribute to his folk roots...Rupert Wates is a master of his craft and he’s produced a lovely tribute to the genre and his fans (4 stars)' (Allan Mckay, Music Riot UK http://musicriot.co.uk/album/for-the-people-rupert-wates/)

'A feast of fingerpicked folk...Masterfully crafted songs...Maybe this is the album that will finally elevate Wates' star to the levels befitting a man of his talent' (Richard Orpin, Americana UK https://americana-uk.com/rupert-wates-for-the-people)

'Ten tracks of superb guitar work and soulful vocals delivering a folk oriented joyous 35 minutes of pure class' (Rory Stanbridge, Fatea UK https://www.fatea-records.co.uk/magazine/reviews/RupertWates4/)

'...The all-original songs do a great job in evoking the timeless quality hinting at, or inspired by events of past centuries. Rupert Wates’ new album is an exemplary work that embodies the best qualities of the genre' (George Graham Reviews, https://www.georgegraham.com/reviews/rupert-wates.html)

'Enviable compositional and instrumental maturity...An elegance and grace that is rarely found these days...wonderful fingerpicking and captivating vocals' (Remo Ricaldone, Lonestar Time, Italy http://www.lonestartime.com/2022/03/rupert-wates-for-people.html)

'An absolute must for seasoned folk lovers' (Theo Volk, Music That Needs Attention https://musicthatneedsattention.blogspot.com/2022/04/rupert-wates-for-people.html)

'An incomparable, timeless folk gem' (Cis Van Looy, Written In Music https://writteninmusic.com/albumrecensie/rupert-wates-for-the-people/)

'Beautiful evocative lyrics put to extraordinary skilled guitar work....Traditional themes presented in beguiling contemporary style. Highly recommended' (Eamonn MacNeill, REAL MUSIC NET https://realmusicnet.wordpress.com/2022/03/04/rupert-wates-for-the-people/?fbclid=IwAR2sUOkvvSKFWIYcGRZP02KIlhoi2B0GR2sr24v6b8vM786Uv3mLSy4464M)

'Do not miss this record' (Rating: Great) (Patrick Dallongeville, Paris-Move https://www.paris-move.com/reviews/rupert-wates-for-the-people/)

'Rupert Wates is a big name from the contemporary folk world...This album...is an absolute must for fans of British folk!' (Peter Marinus, Bluestown Music https://www.bluestownmusic.nl/review-rupert-wates-for-the-people/)

'...Written for all those who are fighting for their lives. All he can do is sing. And maybe that's enough, because you can hear that he means it' (John Gjaltema, AltCountry NL https://www.altcountry.nl/blog/2022/04/rupert-wates-4/)

'Songs that you immediately feel at home in...reminiscent of something you know but that is absolutely his' (Ronand Valstar, Real Roots Cafe https://www.realrootscafe.com/2022/04/12/rupert-wates-for-the-people/?feed_id=1814&fbclid=IwAR1vuqHzq679EQqgVCAlIuQKeFnzAGThvbY-XZVtksqtR_oWrHnq1Vfzu-Q)

'...This wonderful album...lovely songs and impressive musicianship' (Julie Cruickshank, PennyBlack Music https://pennyblackmusic.co.uk/Home/Details?Id=27141)

'Original, authentic - and exciting' (Ullrich Maurer, Gaesteliste https://www.gaesteliste.de/review/show.html?id=6259546e25016450&_nr=21526)

'This bard of the 2000s is the Guido Guinizelli of fingerpicking' (Donata Ricci, Roots Highway http://www.rootshighway.it/outsiders/2022/wates.htm)

'A setting as modest as the ultimate result is impressive...A wonderfully convivial album...with the irresistibly merry closing track the icing on the cake' (Stijntsje, www.stijntsje.blogspot.com)

'34 minutes of flawlessly played and sung real English folk music' (Dani Heyvaert Rootstime https://rootstime.be/index.html?https://rootstime.be/CD%20REVIEUW/2022/APR1/CD107.html)

'...Both traditional and contemporary with great singing and guitar work. Music of and for the people indeed' (4 Stars) (Steve Johnson, Morning Star Online https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/c/album-reviews-with-steve-johnson-may-2-2022)

'All the songs are originals but...they immediately sound like standards...Wates is in his element on this record and makes it all seem effortless' (Martyn Raybould, Whisperin and Hollerin http://www.whisperinandhollerin.com/reviews/review.asp?id=15971)

'A classy collection of original songs...gently fanning the imagination and delivered with a clear, warm vocal' (4 stars) (John Bottomley, Rock and Reel UK http://www.rock-n-reel.co.uk/)

'...Gently wrought stories supported by simple, but beautifully played acoustic guitar' (Ian O Regan, Dancing About Architecture)

'A superb craftsman of the song and a refined weaver of melodies but also a guitarist with a fluid and delicate touch' (BLogfoolk https://www.blogfoolk.com/2022/09/rupert-wates-for-people-bite-music.html?fbclid=IwAR2RcV3NzJ_r1Al1VWZJC2BmmteT8v_1gODYZxRr3y10Pk7U4N46elz5R-U)

Awards: 'ALBUM OF THE MONTH' for March 2022, Transatlantic Conversations on www.celticmusicradio.net

January 2023: Number 7 in the Americana ALBUM OF THE YEAR Listing on UK periodical Blues Blues https://www.bluesblues.co.uk/

Highest chart positions: Number 6 in Folk DJ Chart for February 2022 https://www.folkradio.org/chart/February-2022/#albums

Read more…
Lamentations : CD
  • Lamentations : CD

Lamentations : CD

In cart Not available Out of stock
Not available

Stream and download at www.rupertwates.bandcamp.com

The carousel of birth and death, seen through the eyes of a child, and the challenge of love in a time of breaking: these are the themes of Rupert Wates’s latest CD. Recorded in a single evening, with no overdubs, and featuring only Wates’ voice and his guitar, the album captures the organic

Stream and download at www.rupertwates.bandcamp.com

The carousel of birth and death, seen through the eyes of a child, and the challenge of love in a time of breaking: these are the themes of Rupert Wates’s latest CD. Recorded in a single evening, with no overdubs, and featuring only Wates’ voice and his guitar, the album captures the organic quality of a solo live performance. Its twelve songs showcase the full flowering of a master songwriter at the peak of his powers.

'PURE CLASS' "Taking the most basic elements in the performer’s toolkit, one voice and one instrument, Rupert Wates has created an album that fizzes with acoustic guitar mastery and beautifully-crafted songs...It’s pure class" (Five stars) (http://musicriot.co.uk/album/lamentations-rupert-wates/)

'INDISPENSABLE' "These twelve tracks bear witness to the performance of an undisputed master of the six string acoustic, combined with the overwhelming inspiration of a first-rate songwriter. That albums of this level of excellence can still flourish today restores faith and hope in these troubled times. God damn it, how do you write it down? Just go for it! Score: Indispensable (highest) (Patrick Dalongeville, Paris Move https://www.paris-move.com/reviews/rupert-wates-lamentations/

'TIMELESS' "These are songs with a timeless charm, endlessly intriguing, and…with each listening you invariably appreciate new guitar passages and intrinsic meanings" (Remo Ricaldone, Planet Country Italy) https://www.planetcountry.it/rupert-wates-lamentations/

'FLAWLESS' "...Warm, intense, personal...Lyrically deep, melodically heartfelt and musically adept, he pulls the seemingly impossible off – a flawless and timeless album." (Dave Pearson, Spirit of Progressive Rock https://www.facebook.com/spiritofprogressiverock/)

'AN ABSOLUTE PLEASURE' ''...An absolute pleasure...voice and guitar blend deliciously to provide a listening experience that just grows and grows" (John Barlass, 'At The Barrier' https://atthebarrier.com/2020/12/01/rupert-wates-lamentations-album-review/?)

'MAGICAL' "An album both magical and addictive" (Le Cri Du Coyote, France, Hiver 2020)

'SUPERB' "A superb example of how less can so often be so much more, its simplicity...dressed in those dazzling fingerpicked phrases, making this...among the year's best" (Neil King, FATEA UK https://www.fatea-records.co.uk/magazine/reviews/RupertWates3/)

"Lyrics that cut deep into your mind and soul. Listen to what life is all about!" ( 4 Stars) (Marino Serdons, Keys And Chords http://www.keysandchords.com/album-review-blog/rupert-wates-lamentations)

'Well-crafted lyrics woven into an expert display of musicianship' (Tyler Davies, Americana UK https://americana-uk.com/rupert-wates-lamentations-bite-music-2020'

"Full of warmth and sensitivity, with just that little extra spark of something else, something difficult to describe but easy to understand once you hear it...The songs have a dream like quality that makes repeated plays essential" (Allan Wilkinson, Northern Sky Reviews https://northernskyreviews.com/2021/01/06/rupert-wates-lamentations/)

"A wonderful record' (Dani Heyvaert, Rootstime, https://rootstime.be/index.html?https://rootstime.be/CD%20REVIEUW/2020/DEC1/CD10.html)

"One voice, one guitar, and twelve gorgeous folk songs...If you're a songwriting talent of Rupert Wates' caliber, that's enough" (Stijn De Jong, https://www.facebook.com/SlimChanceIsBack)

"A beautiful album that commands reflection and keeps showing you new things" (Filip Heidinga, BluesTown Music https://www.bluestownmusic.nl/recensie-rupert-wates-lamentations/)

"This enthralling effort joins the dots as 2020 inches towards the conclusion" (Three Chords And The Truth, http://threechordsandthetruthuk.blogspot.com/2020/12/album-release-rupert-wates-lamentations.html)

"Wates' warm voice holds the attention from start to finish" (John Gjaltema, Altcountry NL https://www.altcountry.nl/blog/2021/01/rupert-wates-3/)

"The leisurely charm of his voice seductively lures the listener into his world" (9 out of 10 stars) (Whisperin and Hollerin http://whisperinandhollerin.com/reviews/review.asp?id=15398)

"The intimate vocal and...beautiful sounding Lowden guitar deliver a hypnotic quality" (Paul Mcgee, The Lonesome Highway https://www.lonesomehighway.com/music-reviews/2021/1/12/new-album-reviews)

"The blend sends a shiver down the spine...An engaging and enjoyable collection...from a skilled writer and performer" (3 stars) ( Trevor Raggatt, Rock N Reel Magazine www.rock-n-reel.co.uk)

"A more than excellent disc by a gifted songwriter and a master storyteller" (Fred Schmale, Real Roots Cafe https://www.realrootscafe.com/2021/01/19/rupert-wates-lamentations/)

"...Warms the heart through the music and dreamy lyrics...stuff for incurable romantics" (Marco Restelli, Roots Highway http://www.rootshighway.it/outsiders/2020/wates.htm)

"This warm folk album definitely deserves to be heard" (4 stars) (Pieter Wijnstekers, Heaven Pop Magazine http://www.popmagazineheaven.nl)

"...A masterpiece...The music is exquisite. His guitar work is breathtaking, but never overwrought. His vocals are resonant and heartfelt. His songs are so well crafted, each one is a jewel" (Anne Sandstrom, songwriter, Boston MA)

"A real stunner" (Ben Bedford, songwriter, IL)

"The artwork is beautiful and matches the sound. I love his voice" (Sharyn, New York)

"There's nothing like hearing Rupert Wates play live and every time I see him I'm impressed all over again. This CD is the closest I've heard to his live shows. No one plays guitar like that" (Dave V, Clay Center, KS)

"Wates' music is soothing and relaxing. A great talent. 'Farewell And Adieu' is my favorite. Amazing the music that comes from one man and his guitar" (Dave Sommers, Manhattan Kansas)

"A brilliant CD" (SK Moore, songwriter, AL)

"This music is so soulful. It's such a gift to listen" (Catherine, New Jersey)

AWARDS/ACCOLADES: Number 8 in Folk Alliance International Radio Charts, February 2021 https://www.folkradio.org/chart/february-2021/?fbclid=IwAR0E9x49PiP3hbqxNLbAYIorFjhZJ6bwwfRBLAoBejAJLj1Y6c_H3ad5ldQ#albums

Read more…
City Of Lights: Five Short Stories of Paris
  • City Of Lights: Five Short Stories of Paris

City Of Lights: Five Short Stories of Paris

In cart Not available Out of stock
$15.00

An anthology of short fiction, written in and inspired by Paris, on themes of desire, loneliness, and the alienation of the big city

Read more…
Full Circle: CD
  • Full Circle: CD

Full Circle: CD

In cart Not available Out of stock
Not available

Stream and download at www.rupertwates.bandcamp.com

Rupert Wates writes: "This CD is a return to my roots – hence the title. It features just my voice and my guitar, recorded live in the studio, with no overdubs, and mostly in one take. It’s intended partly as a form of homage to the artists I grew up listening to – among them Leo Kottke, John

Stream and download at www.rupertwates.bandcamp.com

Rupert Wates writes: "This CD is a return to my roots – hence the title. It features just my voice and my guitar, recorded live in the studio, with no overdubs, and mostly in one take. It’s intended partly as a form of homage to the artists I grew up listening to – among them Leo Kottke, John Martyn, Joni Mitchell and Nick Drake – who have made me the musician I am today. I hope it’s a worthy continuation of the fire they first set ablaze in me." Standout songs: (1) I’m Amazed; (3) Full Circle; (4) Ballad Of A Brown Eyed Girl; (7) Driverless Train; (11) Last Of The Hotbloods

REVIEWS:

"Highly recommended" 'His guitar playing is of the highest order...perfectly matched by his flawless vocal delivery. His music has a timeless quality' (Paul McGee, Lonesome Highway https://www.lonesomehighway.com)

"An album to be treasured" 'His guitar playing is as good as it gets, matched by his skill as a songwriter...He is a brilliant lyricist with the ability to paint pictures in the listener's mind with subtle brushstrokes, all accompanied by some wonderful fingerstyle acoustic guitar work...'Ballad Of A Brown Eyed Girl' is a typical example of Rupert's outstanding musical skill and talent...All in all, this is an album that deserves to be treasured...' Roy Stanbridge, FATEA UK (www.fatea-records.co.uk/magazine/reviews/RupertWates2/

Read more…
The Lights Of Paris: CD
  • The Lights Of Paris: CD

The Lights Of Paris: CD

In cart Not available Out of stock
Not available

Available only for streaming and download at www.rupertwates.bandcamp.com

Buy online at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078CYHG8S/ref=ap_ws_tlw_alb2

Rupert Wates' ninth solo album takes an unflinching look at the dangers, disillusionments and cruelties of today's world, in which the lights of Paris offer a symbol of love, beauty and hope. On this disc,

Available only for streaming and download at www.rupertwates.bandcamp.com

Buy online at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078CYHG8S/ref=ap_ws_tlw_alb2

Rupert Wates' ninth solo album takes an unflinching look at the dangers, disillusionments and cruelties of today's world, in which the lights of Paris offer a symbol of love, beauty and hope. On this disc, Wates' signature sound is reduced to the essentials of his voice and distinctive fingerstyle guitar, with color added by virtuoso musicians Adrianna Mateo (violin) and Brian Sanders (cello) in string arrangements by Grammy-nominated John Guari.

REVIEWS of 'THE LIGHTS OF PARIS':

"What a voice!" 'Anyone who does not yet know the English-born and now American based artist with the velvety baritone has a real discovery in front of him...The songs...interweave thoughtfully melancholic lyrics artfully with catchy melodies' (Ulric Joosten, FOLKER Magazine, Germany https://www.folker.de/rezis/rezensionen.php?ausgabe=201803&region=in)

"A very high level" 'Fans of beautiful acoustic guitar based...music should definitely check this out, as it is from a very high level, with Rupert providing excellent calm relaxing vocal work' (8 out of 10) (Strutterzine, Netherlands http://strutter.mysite.com/HOTNEWREVIEWS2018August.html)

4 Stars 'Poetic reflections on the times...steeped in the history of hope and struggle. Richly romantic tenderness in an age when 'all we loved has gone to hell'. The lights of Paris are...a symbolic beacon that never goes out' (Andrew Darlington, R2 Rock and Reel Review www.rock-n-reel.co.uk)

"Unsurpassed beauty"(*****5 Stars) '...Not only an important comment on the times in which we live, it is done with unsurpassed beauty' (Lakeside Music, Manhattan KS https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/rupertwates7)

"Fabulous poetry"(*****5 stars) '...Fabulous Poetry as Music Bringing Listener to Sublime' (Customer review, CD Baby https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/rupertwates7)

"Beautifully arranged folk" 'Fans of beautifully arranged folk will not balk at 'The Lights Of Paris' (Theo Volk, Music That Needs Attention https://musicthatneedsattention.blogspot.com/2017/12/rupert-wates-lights-of-paris.html)

"A folk pearl"(**** 4 stars) '...Sparkling acoustic fingerpicking and warm expressive vocals...With perfectly balanced stories, Rupert Wates can effortlessly hold the attention...A folk pearl that...transcends the genre' (Cis Van Looy, http://www.writteninmusic.com/roots/rupert-wates-the-lights-of-paris/

"All equally beautiful" 'My favorite song is 'My Face To The Morning' but...they are all equally beautiful' (Rootsville, http://www.rootsville.eu/2018 album reports/reports/rupert wates.html)

"These lights shine bright" (Mike Davies, FATEA http://www.fatea-records.co.uk/magazine/reviews/RupertWates/

"Catches you by the ankles...a completely unique style" (****4 stars) 'Wates' powerful acoustic guitar play catches you by the ankles, so that you do not lose attention for a moment...Wates maintains a completely unique style, which he knows how to use in new ways from album to album...He deserves more attention' (John Gjaltema, Alt Country NL http://www.altcountry.nl/blog/2018/01/rupert-wates-2/)

"Profound" 'Musically quite sober, the lyrics stimulate the listener to profound reflection...a very enjoyable work of art' (Valsam, Rootstime www.rootstime.be/CD%20REVIEUW/2018/JAN1/CD120.html)

"A disc of considerable expressive power" 'Wates has achieved a style that is genuinely authentic and rich in ideas...The compositional aspect is excellent, poetically relevant and with heartfelt passion and great soul. 'The Lights Of Paris' declares, by its title, a romanticism that is never cloying or sugar, and denotes instead a profound humanity...A disc of considerable expressive power' (Remo Ricaldone, The Long Journey http://www.bcmai.it/tlj/recensione.asp?IDDisco=3186&IDRecensione=3234)

"Effortless and impressive" 'Like all good Folk releases should...a reflection of the ways in which we shape our world...A style that sounds effortless and impressive, while his clear vocal tone never clutters the arrangements' (Paul McGee, Lonesome Highway http://lonesomehighway.com/

"Classic folk" '...The state of the heart as caught in a crossfire. The recording is spare...which allows moments of great beauty...The thing about this record is its sincerity. That fact sets the piece...apart. Wates is unafraid to sing what he really means' (Steve Klingaman, Minor 7th www.minor7th.com)

"Its charm never weakens" 'I am devilishly seduced by Wates' 9th album...Both fragile and immediate, its charm never weakens for an instant' (Sam Pierre, Le Cri Du Coyote)

"Fine Magic" (7.5 Stars out of 10) 'In brief songs he draws modern moral pictures...With careful listening the pieces release their fine magic. He...succeeds in capturing the spirit of the folk revival' (Walter Sehrer, Eclipsed-Rock, Germany www.eclipsed.de)

"A fabulous songwriter and poet" 'The 9th album from the immensely talented folk balladeer...The sparseness of the instrumentation directs the attention to the expressive voice of the singer/songwriter...Wates is...a fabulous songwriter and poet' (Max W Achatz, Country Juke Box Germany http://www.countryjukebox.de/pages/flash.htm)

AWARDS:

30th Place in 'Top 100 Albums of 2018' compiled by Eclipsed Rock Magazine, Germany, (https://www.eclipsed.de/de)

Finalist, Kerrville New Folk Song Contest 2018 for 'The Day The Great Ship Went Down' and 'A Song Of Your Own'

'Outstanding Songwriting Achievement' for 'The Day The Great Ship Went Down', Great American Song Contest 2017 (www.greatamericansong.com/winners.php)

'Finalist' for 'Oh The Times', Great American Song Contest 2017 (www.greatamericansong.com/winners.php)

CD of The Week, 12 30 2017, Midnight Special Chicago 98.7WFMT www.midnightspecial.org/

Read more…
The Rank Outsiders Ball: CD
  • The Rank Outsiders Ball: CD

The Rank Outsiders Ball: CD

In cart Not available Out of stock
$15.00

On this disc, Wates moves away from simple folk, to get closer to Jazz, vaudeville and even theater. He depicts the world itself as a stage, a circus in which we are all performers. At The Rank Outsiders Ball, the more outrageous your role, the better you'll fit in. Rupert Wates welcomes us all, in the voice of a born outsider: uniquely and even

On this disc, Wates moves away from simple folk, to get closer to Jazz, vaudeville and even theater. He depicts the world itself as a stage, a circus in which we are all performers. At The Rank Outsiders Ball, the more outrageous your role, the better you'll fit in. Rupert Wates welcomes us all, in the voice of a born outsider: uniquely and even defiantly his own. "A prime figure in American music" (Folk And Acoustic Music Exchange)

"...Intriguingly brisk music with smooth focused vocals...There is a universality of time and place that ultimately succeeds here, while retaining a personal style. I don't even want to pin it down more than that. I'll just lean back and listen some more" (David Hintz, www.folkworld.eu)

"A wonderful slice of Weimar sleeze...With short, crisp songs, the album sounds not unlike a musical soundtrack with a cast of losers and freaks, with Wates in the role of MC" (R2 Rock N Reel www.rock-n-reel.co.uk)

"Lyrically articulate and literate...he's been compared to Brecht, Gordon Lightfoot and Brian Protheroe...Despite the variety of musical colours, [the CD] doesn't stray too far from the path of its chosen genre...But then why would you want a glass of Riesling when you have a whole case of champagne?" (Mike Davies, Folk Radio UK on Rupert Wates' latest album The Rank Outsiders Ball. Read the full review at www.folkradio.co.uk.)

"...Sitting in a weird twilight where a late Edwardian country village fete rubs up against sleazy Left Bank chic...'The Rank Outsiders Ball' is one of those albums that feels slightly out of time and in doing so, becomes timeless...I've rather rapidly become a fan of Rupert Wates and his band of musicians. There's 14 tracks on this cut and frankly every one of them's a winner." (Neil King, Fatea Showcases UK on Rupert Wates' latest album The Rank Outsiders Ball. Read the full review at www.fatea-records.co.uk.)

"...A smidgen of Django, and a little dose of the English music hall leavened with the panache of an expert Continental quartet. Wates is...a marvelous lyricist...he writes words that sing. At first one is tempted to call them Brechtian, but...they're actually better, more subtle and supple. And his brevity...stunning. So what you get here is an under-recognized master of the indie circuit having fun making what was never truly old new. You hope he, and the (Band of) Geeks, receive their due, because the time out of mind experience delivered here is truly affecting." (Steve Klingaman on Rupert Wates' latest album The Rank Outsiders Ball. Read the full review at www.minor7th.com.)

"...Traveling a step beyond where folkies and mellow rockers fear to tread...'Outsiders Ball' is decidedly Rupert's most mellifluous, most stripped down...and most internally subversive release, with fangs not noticed until they're deep in your flesh, smiling back up at your shocked face...Start anywhere you like in his catalogue, it doesn't really matter, 'cause you'll soon be moving on to the rest rather quickly... Lend an ear to a sometime samba boogie, other times a breezy Balkan ditty, once or twice as though Gordon Lightfoot were contemplating turning Lothario before seeing Bryan Ferry across the room..." (Mark S. Tucker on Rupert Wates' latest album The Rank Outsiders Ball. Read the full review at FAME.)

"Acoustic folk pop, at times heavily influenced by jazz, and featuring deft guitar playing. The songs are completed with lyrics that are tightly focused, demanding the listener's attention. The quartet offers a sophisticated, spirited and committed performance. The content is...like the cover, a little warped and different but at the same time appealing" (Zero Magazine, Gothenburg Sweden)

"...Wates has a long history of...good albums in the folk genre and this album is no exception...'The Entertainer' is an amusing look at some seedy goings on, with a wry delivery from Wates and expert playing by his band...Wates paints a sad yet compelling tale of the need for escape. It's a great album" (Anna Maria Stjarnell, www.lunakafe.com)

"Rupert Wates convinces once more as a songwriter and teller of outstandingly melodious tales" (Karsten Rube, Folkworld, Germany www.folkworld.eu)

"A very fine disc from the richly talented Rupert Wates which we recommend warmly." (Valsam, April 2014, on Rupert Wates' latest album The Rank Outsiders Ball. Read the full review at rootstime.be.)

"..Perfectly sung and perfectly played...think of the witty musical interludes in topical television shows of the sixties, and you're half way there..." (Paul Kerr, 15 May 2014, on Rupert Wates' latest album The Rank Outsiders Ball. Read the full review at Americana-UK.com.)

"...Delving into the world of cabaret and Weimar-style sleeze, it's more garden party than wrecking ball" (Sean McGhee, Vive Le Rock UK Magazine)

Calling all geeks, misfits and loners: there’s a place for us all at The Rank Outsiders Ball.Rupert Wates’ latest release continues the themes of his earlier CDs “Joe’s Café” (2010) and “At The Losers’ Motel” (2102), envisaging a place where people come together, and where music is the force that binds them. On this disc, Wates’ sound is more consistent and unified than ever before. A single chord gave rise to all 14 songs. Moving away from folk, Wates gets closer to vaudeville and even theater. He depicts the world itself as a stage, a circus in which we are all performers. At The Rank Outsiders Ball, the more outrageous your role, the better you’ll fit in.

The album was recorded live in the studio in three days. It features contributions from virtuoso musicians Bartosz Hadala (keyboards), Trifon Dmitrov (bass) and Chris Howard (percussion). Stand out tracks are ‘The Rank Outsiders Ball’, ‘Drowned’, ‘Time’ and ‘Travelling Circus’.

Rupert Wates welcomes us all to the ball, in the voice of a born outsider: uniquely and even defiantly his own.

– Leo Green, BiteMusic Limited

Read more…
Dear Life: CD
  • Dear Life: CD

Dear Life: CD

In cart Not available Out of stock
$15.00

"Every cut's a gem, completely absorbing, enthralling." (Mark S. Tucker, Folk And Acoustic Music Exchange)

Recorded in a single weekend at the peak of Wates' summer 2008 US tour, this a darker, more intense album whose songs concern the violence and fragility of modern life. Sparse instrumentation supports the somber mood. The album features superb

"Every cut's a gem, completely absorbing, enthralling." (Mark S. Tucker, Folk And Acoustic Music Exchange)

Recorded in a single weekend at the peak of Wates' summer 2008 US tour, this a darker, more intense album whose songs concern the violence and fragility of modern life. Sparse instrumentation supports the somber mood. The album features superb paying by outstanding musician including virtuoso bassist Michael Manring.

Awards Overall - Finalist, Best Lyrics Category, Indie Acoustic Project 2008 'Elegy For The Coming Man' - Honorable Mention, Independent Singer-Songwriter Awards 2008; Finalist, Bandwars 2009 'I Dream' - Honorable Mention, North Carolina Songwriters Contest 2008

Read more…
The Nightwatchers: CD
  • The Nightwatchers: CD

The Nightwatchers: CD

In cart Not available Out of stock
Not available

This CD comprises twelve of Rupert Wates' most requested songs, performed live in the studio with virtuoso pianist Bartosz Hadala. It was one of 29 Top Albums selected by noted critic Mark S Tucker in his round up of the year for the online review 'Perfect Sound Forever' www.furious.com/perfect/

Read more…
Joe's Cafe : CD
  • Joe's Cafe : CD

Joe's Cafe : CD

In cart Not available Out of stock
$15.00

"A brilliant album all told." (Ectophiles Guide To Good Music) "Tearing aside the veneer of consensus reality...'Joe's Cafe' burrows deeply into heart and mind." (Folk And Acoustic Music Exchange)

Joe's Cafe is a new and unique album concept. Fifteen original songs based on true stories, each interpreted by a different vocalist, retell the stories

"A brilliant album all told." (Ectophiles Guide To Good Music) "Tearing aside the veneer of consensus reality...'Joe's Cafe' burrows deeply into heart and mind." (Folk And Acoustic Music Exchange)

Joe's Cafe is a new and unique album concept. Fifteen original songs based on true stories, each interpreted by a different vocalist, retell the stories of ordinary American people, and through them trace the story of America itself. Recorded live in the studio in a single weekend, the album's warm sound evokes the welcoming atmosphere of an all-night cafe, where friends gather to share their stories. Featured virtuoso musicians include Darol Anger on violin and Michael Manring on bass.

Awards 'Prayer'- Semi Finalist, Bandwars 2011 'Days Of Mercy' - Honorable Mention Bandwars 2011 'Sally's Farm' - Honorable Mention, Austin Songwriters 2010

Read more…

colorado mornings

released in march 2016

Available now at live shows | Buy online on Amazon amazon.com/Colorado-Mornings-Rupert-Wates/dp/B01E7L00PM

Buy on I-TUNES https://music.apple.com/us/album/colorado-mornings/1098353262

Stream and download at www.rupertwates.bandcamp.com


The eighth CD from singer-songwriter Rupert Wates is an album of acoustic love songs inspired by the beauty of Colorado. It depicts the journey of two lovers, as they travel like Wild West outlaws in search of new frontiers and freedoms. In keeping with the album's setting, its sound is pastoral, rootsy, folk-inflected. At the forefront is Wates' signature fluid fingerstyle guitar, and his distinctive vocals, at once gentle and intense. Backing him is the outstanding rhythm section that has appeared on his earlier CDs: Bartosz Hadala on keyboards, Trifon Dimitrov on bass, and Chris Howard on hand drums. Playing together with the interactive unity of old friends, these four musicians recorded all 12 songs live in the studio, with no overdubs, in just three days. Their interplay was masterfully captured by engineer Jeff Pelletier. The result is an album whose every element is organic from the roots up: a fitting tribute to the place and the people that inspired it. (Leo Green, BiteMusic Limited)

REVIEWS of COLORADO MORNINGS 

"Perfectly acheived"
'Wates has a beautiful tenor and sings true love songs...The music is perfectly achieved' Adolf Goriup, Folkworld http://www.folkworld.eu/61/e/cds3.html#wate

"This is quality"
'It is difficult to decide how to characterize Wates – his lyrical texts, his immaculate music (his control of the fingerpicking style is admirably perfect) or his throaty voice...With soft chimes, Wates takes his listeners into the wild beauty of his temporary adopted homeland Colorado, and with the fluent play of his fingers he tells stories, like his knowing description of seldom simple human love in the song “Lady Grey”. Here he sings about the memories of an ageing woman, her former beauty, lust for life and life-lies. These are lyrics that underscore how much he fine-tunes his texts. This is nothing muddied here, this is quality.' (Von Jurgen Zimmer, Hannoversche Allgemeine Zeitung http://www.kulturtresen.de/files/161012_LKNZ_VP_artikel_nachbericht_zum_konzert_rupert_wates.pdf) (Transl. by Andrea Palusch)

"A songwriting tour de force"
'(Wates)' brilliantly observed compositions have already won him over 30 songwriting awards.  'Colorado Mornings'...goes a long way to explaining that degree of success.  Taking in pop, jazz, country and folk, it's a songwriting tour de force' (R2 Rock N Reel, UK www.rock-n-reel.co.uk)

"Melodic and refined style"
'Don't expect harsh country and western flavors, because Wates' ballads have a more melodic and refined style in which his British folk roots are clearly present, blending pop, jazz, even vaudeville, between the elegant touch of pianist Bartosz Hadala, a longtime collaborator, and Wates' signature fingerpicking' (Roots Highway, Italy www.rootshighway.it/Shortcuts/short.htm

"A fine package of songs here" 
(David Hintz, Folk World Germany www.folkworld.de/60/e/cds6.html)

"Romantic easy listening jazz with a western touch" (3 stars)
(John Gjaltema, AltCountry Forum NL)

"A unique listening experience"
'...In the folk music genre quality of this kind does not come along too often...Besides a clear kinship with Martin Simpson, Steve Tiltson and Bert Jansch, this emigrant living in the US...adds jazz, cabaret and vaudeville to his palette...Twelve love songs which will give folk fans a lot of pleasure' (Koos Gijsman, Heaven Magazine Holland www.popmagazineheaven.nl) (Rating 7.5)

"A beautiful album to dream" (3.5 Stars)
(Lambert Smits, Keys And Chords magazine www.keysandchords.com)

"Intense beauty (3.5 stars)" 
'...Intense beauty, rarely encountered nowadays...Old fashioned class'  (Cis Van Looy, 3 and a half star review, www.writteninmusic.com June 2016) 

"A terrific songwriter"
'...In order to tug at the heartstrings, (you) need a refreshing take, a deft use of metaphors, and more...Rupert Wates does all that.  He's a terrific songwriter - there's a reason why he's won over 30 awards - and you'll enjoy his warm vocals reminiscent of early Gordon Lightfoot, sparkling acoustic guitar work, and a wonderful band that showcases this collection of original love songs...Well-done album' (Jamie AndersonMinor 7th www.minor7th.com/shorttakes6_16.html)

“An eclectic masterpiece...sublime folk hymns”
‘…Rupert takes his listeners on a delightful cruise over sweeping tones with his vocals.  Flawless guitar picking and a noble English tenor weave into jazzy chords.  Vocalist Stacey Lorin sings on the Irish shanty The Green And Goodly Valley, as Bartosz Hadala mirrors the cool jazz style on piano.  Trifon Dimitrov’s stand-up bass playing helps shape the tone, making this album an eclectic masterpiece.  Fluent percussion from Chris Howard blends arrangements together, creating a full aural experience.
…This work depicts a timeless tale of two lovers embarking on a life-changing journey…Pastoral landscapes of sepia and forest green manifest into one’s imagination while 12 solidly constructed tunes tap dance through the ear.
…Rupert Wates is a consummate professional who graces this CD with his satisfying folk style.  A striking composition from start to finish, Colorado Mornings True Love Songs boasts an array of pleasing acoustic singsongs.  I highly recommend this collection for anyone who loves a great compilation of musings and appreciates the subtlety of sublime folk hymns.  Not all who have wandered are still considered lost, and we’re lucky to have been found by Rupert Wates’  (Brian Rill, The Real Deal Music Review, Colorado Central Magazine April 2016) Read Full review: http://cozine.com/2016-march/cd-review-rupert-wates-colorado-mornings-true-love-songs/


"Grapes of Wrath mixed with Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid by way of Tombstone. Yep, this is dyed-in-the-wool folk music…with a twist of lemon.  
The darkness of Joe’s Café (2010) has gone by the boards here...Replaced by the stern-visaged Wates packing heat in Doc Holliday raiment…flanked by mistress / wife / schoolmarm / society-matron paramour ever at his John Ford side. Ghost town and forest provide the backdrop, not NYC glitter, and modernity raises nary a manicured hair in the oeuvre save for that interestingly lo-toned Sinatra-esque quality in “If Ever My Love”. Wates’ guitar work is alternatingly accommodative, laid back, and then self-interlocking and propulsive, several times hypnotic in a way John Martyn might have employed.  
Dropping into a mode that has in the past included discernable Nick Drake, Gordon Lightfoot, Kenny Rankin, and other elements, one can now add Ian Tyson, Livingston Taylor, even a rougher John Denver (“Lady Grey” and other cuts dip into the late Denver’s mountain airs) and others. The band this time, more than ever, is mindful of those great early ensembles Bruce Cockburn trotted out in his LPs, sonorous and complex, alternatingly rustic-energetic and backporch pensive. Bass player Trifon Dimitrov particularly calls to memory Cockburn’s stalwart four-stringer Dennis Pendrith, and the beautifully delicate piano strains of Bartosz Hadala in cuts such as “Fear of Flying” underscore Wates’ repeating patterns to elicit falling rain drops, glinting sun rays, and fresh beezes. True Love Songs is by far Wate’s rootsiest effort to date." (Mark S Tucker, Veritas Vampiras # 1)

Four Stars ****
"The songs are...poetic, often about the beauty of Colorado and they reminded me of Jimmy Webb...and early Gordon Lightfoot.  I enjoyed both (Wates') voice and the songs" (Spenser Leigh, four star review, Country Music People Magazine June 2016)

at the losers’ motel

Rupert Wates singer-songwriter album (At the) Loser's Motel 2012

released in spring 2012

Listen | Buy online on Amazon amazon.com/At-Losers-Motel-Rupert-Wates/dp/B008BJTN82
Buy on iTunes | Album $9.99, Singles 99 cents

★★★★★ "Wow! Rupert can wow an audience with his amazing voice and his astonishing guitar skills. Rupert Wates has the four magical keys to being a superb singer/songwriter; he has a pitch-perfect voice that's soothing as well as enticing, his lyrics are pure literature. Rupert's tunes will hook you after a few notes and his hands pull melodies out of a guitar that seem almost magical. But there's no slight of hand, it's all Rupert. His songs will keep you coming-back for more. Two thumbs WAY up!" (Customer review, iTunes)

"You will find surprising beauty "At the Losers' Motel." Listen to the ring of the fingerpicking that opens Rupert Wates' latest release. Or the lovely modulation as the title track moves into its middle section. Or the joyful attack on the strings in "Waiting to Begin" and the energetic solo in "Tired..." Acoustic guitar is what we listen for at Minor7th and Wates' serves effectively throughout as his orchestra. The arrangements feature, at one time or another, backing vocals, double bass, and percussion here and there making some edgy moves. String arrangements prettily support lyrics... But the mix consistently gives the guitar unusual prominence. Adroit wordsmithing reflects the writer's mindfulness. Note the embedded rhymes here: "Taking hard knocks is a lonely school / but when you know you know nothing / you're the wisest fool of all / And you step up to the fool's role call." The lyrics offer rewarding moments of self-reflection as when Wates admits his membership in the "Fools' Parade..." In the reviewed "Dear Life," Wates focused on the bleakness of the contemporary world. Here, looking at the human condition in a more personal way, Wates proves himself to be, once again, a tuneful music man of the melancholy." (David Kleiner, Minor 7th.com, March/April 2013)

"Another solid effort from the ever-reliable Wates. He's written some truly affecting song and gets great support from the band. 'Fools' Parade' is a strong song with a powerful lyric about the follies of humanity. 'Why I Had to Leave' is a reflective song of love lost that gets a lovely treatment. "Be Near Me' is a warm, comforting song that shows Wates at his best. He's made another fine album. (The Ectophiles' Guide to Good Music)

"Rich full-band folk music ... When Love Came to Stay invokes some of the finer British folk artists heading more toward John Martyn or Michael Chapman... a voice somewhere toward Nick Drake, but a little deeper... This album will appeal to a lot of folk-rock singer-songwriter fans out there." (David Hintz, FolkWorld, July 2012)

"I'm not sure which to praise more: Rupert Wates' marvellous lyrics, the spotless music, or that streetside cabaret folk voice of his, a crafted instrument which seduces as it gently reproves...This is one gifted S.O.B., throwing off song after affecting song with what appears to be complete ease...If you're not hip to this guy, you're missing a lot." (Mark S. Tucker, Folk And Acoustic Music Exchange)

"One of the most beautiful discs I have heard this year... I think you will agree this CD has everything a good disc should have" (Preach, www.rootstime.be - in Dutch - translation from Dutch by V. De Waal)

Recorded in three days live in Asheville's Echo Mountain Studios, the 12 songs on Rupert Wates' latest disc portray the ancient struggle between time and human tenderness. Featured musicians are Mike Holstein (double bass) and Valorie Miller (backing voice).

coast to coast