Bobby Jo Valentine to bring his inspirational music to Des Plaines

At 7 p.m. on Friday, March 18, St. Martin's Episcopal Church, 1095 Thacker St., Des Plaines, will host a concert featuring inspirational folk/pop artist Bobby Jo Valentine.

Valentine's lyrical depth, authentic performances, charm and infectious vocal melodies have earned the praises of industry veterans like Brian Lucey, mastering engineer for The Shins and The Black Keys.

"Bobby writes with a sweetness and honesty seldom heard in acoustic pop music," says Lucey.

Just as importantly, those same attributes have earned Valentine an ever-expanding fan base and, most recently, the 2015 West Coast Songwriter Association's Songwriter of the Year Award. His new album, "Fox Eyes, Whale Heart," is full of poetry that asks why we believe what we believe, how to be hopeful when it feels like we're at the bottom of everything, and where we go from there.

Valentine's albums have garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews, but more noteworthy are the responses to his honest, raw, resonating live performances.

Dubbed "The nicest guy ever to pick up an acoustic guitar" by LA Weekly, he has been touring the nation full-time for three years and plays everywhere there is a listening ear - from intimate concerts at house concerts, to the sacred spaces of beautiful church halls, to festivals for thousands.

Bursting with energy, realistic optimism and filled with uplifting, honest messages about hope and life's struggles, Valentine continues to gather new listeners with every live performance.

"Armed with just a guitar and ukulele, Bobby aims straight for the heart," said Bruce Kaplan, Folk Unlimited.

Concert tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

St. Martin's Episcopal Church is a diverse, caring and Spirit-filled community, actively drawing people to Christ and connecting God's love to the world. All are welcome. Visit www.saintmartinschurchdp.com.

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