Tim Sparks has developed a devoted international following as a guitarist, and a reputation as a singular talent and innovator of the instrument. He is known for his far-reaching musical explorations, including a solo guitar adaptation ofTchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite; music inspired by his roots in rural North Carolina; and five recordings of Klezmer reinterpretations for John Zorn’s vaunted independent label, Tzadik. Tim’s praises are sung far and wide by musical cognoscenti, with guitar legend Bill Frisell saying, “Tim Sparks is a complete original. Every guitarist on the planet should hear this.” Likewise, 12-string pioneer Leo Kottke exclaimed, “He’s one of the best musicians I know.”

Tom Lieberman is perhaps best known for his association with public radio’s A Prairie Home Companion, where he worked variously on the performance, creative and production staff from 1976-86. His work on APHC started Tom on a career path as an award-winning writer, composer and producer for radio, television, stage and screen. His original songs have been heard from Sesame Street to Sweet Land, and his recording of original songs, “Common Denominator” has been received enthusiastically by listeners, press & broadcasters worldwide, with Star Tribune reviewers placing it on their annual “Top Ten Albums” list, describing it as, “bluesy, simmering, profoundly philosophical,” “gentle, playful, romantic and infectious,” and “a charming, eclectic album of original songs.”