Some might say that, to exist in a bizarre state of so-called "reality" and be an artist at the same time is a lesson in futility. Singer/Songwriter/Acoustic Guitarist Michael Shelton bridges this seemingly impossible gap by playing music that is insightful and emotional; gut-wrenching and inspiring. While growing up in Texas, Michael Shelton became heavily influenced by such diverse artists as U2, Leonard Cohen, the Cure, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Elvis Costello, and Barenaked Ladies, among others. Shelton's music is a delicate and passionate balance of acousti-pop themes, modern rock fortitude, and jazz phrasing. His musical performances are a captivating and passionate escape from monotony into a world where possibilities are endless, heartbreak is random, and the redemption found in the beauty around us is evident with every waking breath. Michael Shelton is no novice to the game of public-performance. He has played with such incredible worldwide acts as Grammy-nominated bassist and composer Michael Manring, Seth Horan (formerly of Vertical Horizon) and Rolling Stone indie artist of the year, Granian, just to name a few. Having played from California to Texas, Shelton's performances have been described as "Intoxicating, Energetic, Heartful and Soulful". As one fan elaborates, "I can feel Michael's music inside of me and it makes me smile; it keeps me coming back for more - He connects with his audience in a spiritual way." The venues that Shelton frequents are as elated as his fans. Says one such business owner, "Michael is the kind of person who is genuine in all he does and always makes our guests feel welcomed...Not only have his talents exceeded our expectations, but his gift of music infuses his audience with a perpetual swoon. He shines onstage through connections that he forges with our customers; he is genuine and we love sharing this experience with the people who come to see him on a continual basis to enjoy his love for the arts." Shelton has showcased festivals with audiences as large as 5000, yet is just as comfortable sharing his music at coffee shops and house concerts. His list of accomplishments as a touring artist includes winning Santa Cruz songwriting expo in 2004, and most recently, being featured Artist of the Month on PeterHarperArt.com. Additionally, as one critic for CDbaby.com elaborates, "...[Michael Shelton] is truly representative of a new height of artistic expression in the singer-songwriter genre. Michael expresses deeply personal views on life, love, spirituality, and loss, showing incredible lyrical sensitivity and highly advanced instrumental prowess." Through a delicate blend of cutting edge guitar riffs and insightful lyrics, Shelton's latest release, Gallery of Dreams ties all of these themes of passion and purpose together in an eloquently coherent way. "This [CD] project is a collection of dreams and aspirations in their many forms from the past 3 years of my life. I believe that, at the end of life, our existence can be boiled down into the sum total of our memories. Whether melancholy or elation, our dreams and hence, our memories, are our most precious assets." The album is now available online and in select stores on the Central Coast of CA. In an era of war and confusion, artists like Michael Shelton are a cool drink on the parched tongue of a society that is craving something new, something original, something genuine. Above all, "His music is timeless and his lyrics refreshing." On the Web: www.michaelshelton.com or http://www.myspace.com/michaelshelton Booking information: booking@michaelshelton.com 1.805.588.2770