How does one describe the hottest sound in America today? Acoustic guitar, funk drumming, thoughtful lyrics, and a memorable melody, all rolled into a sound that's easy to listen to, yet still cutting edge. It's properly described Acoustic Funk/Rock, and it's the sound of Edward.

 Since the recent release of his self-titled, debut CD, Edward has already received critical acclaim for his songwriting ability and guitar skills alike. Del Langejans, an internationally renowned guitar builder out of Holland, Michigan, signed an endorsement deal with Edward after hearing him play. "I have players like Phil Keaggy, Thom Bresh and Earl Klugh playing my guitars…Edward is simply an outstanding player; I’m very honored that he chooses to play mine," states an ever humble Langejans.

"[Edward] is an incredible guitarist," says J.B., acclaimed studio engineer for the likes of Amy Grant and Phil Keaggy.

 Edward's roots as a guitarist are obvious in his—predominantly—guitaristic debut album. His style has likened him to such guitarists as Eddie Van Halen, Michael Hedges, and Phil Keaggy. He admits to having developed an unorthodox style. "I think it’s a combination of not having taken lessons and getting bored with the status quo." As heard in his instrumental piece the Langejam, Edward has been known to drum on his guitar, slap and tap the fretboard and at live shows has even been seen singing into his guitar!

 Unmistakably, then, it is Edward's solo live show that has been turning heads. A self-proclaimed "gear freak," Edward's typical performance consists of an acoustic guitar run through various effect pedals, including distortion and fuzz pedals. "I need to enjoy the performance as much as my audience does," he says. Most interestingly, Edward utilizes a device called the JamMan, which he uses to record and loop himself on the fly. "It gives the illusion that there are more instrumentalists than just you up there. I can comp out a chord progression, at which point I can start soloing over it, or even overdub more parts in. The possibilities are endless, and the fun is in the impulsiveness of it. It's neat to see when the audience sees you get up on stage with just an acoustic and think 'oh, here comes a laid back folk artist.' Well have I got a surprise for them!"

 Because of his explosive live show, Edward was requested to "open" for five-time Dove nominee, Dove and Grammy award winner, Bryan Duncan, a internationally heralded Christian Contemporary Artist (CCM). He has also been asked by Sony gold recording artist, Darrell Davis, who in 1992 had the number one hit song in America, "You’ve Got to Live and Learn," to be his opening act, at Mr. Davis’ request.

 Also on Edward's list of accomplishments is airplay on local D.C. radio stations like WAVA (105.1 FM) and WGTS (91.9 FM). He has also been asked to do a Christmas musical greeting by radio station WASH (97.1 FM) that was played throughout the weeks prior to Christmas. Edward has been interviewed by the Potomac Almanac and Potomac Gazette, and his CD has been reviewed by the Gazette newspapers.

 Ironically, Edward believes his real gift is in his songwriting, producing and arranging, not his guitar skills. This fact is evidenced in his self-titled, debut CD, which Edward recorded, engineered and produced all by himself. "It's funny. A year prior to the CD's release, I didn't own a single piece of recording gear, nor did I know the first thing about recording. But with a few magazines and even more sleepless nights, the CD was finally born!"

 Growing up, Edward has enjoyed the music of Genesis, the Police, Bob Marley U2, and J.S. Bach. Nevertheless, it is obvious that his inspirations draw from all walks of life. Whatever it truly is, Edward says he would rather call it "heart" music. "Truly powerful music comes from the heart—it is a message from the musician; it doesn’t necessarily have to be ‘edgy’ and full of distortion—that is a misconception. That's why I like to sing about real-life issues. Issues everyone can relate to. Sometimes those issues are controversial. Well, I'd like to clear up those controversies." Edward's eye-opening outlook on life is heard in opening song In This Life, which combined with its dance-like quality is a crowd favorite. Yet another highly requested song is Someday, for it's inspiring lyrics and catchy, yet timeless rhythm. One of the most popular songs, Helpless is highly regarded for it's grunge-like quality, angry lyrics, and memorable guitar licks. "Every song I write paints a little picture of who I am and what I stand for." Since the CD, Edward has written over twenty songs, and has well over two hours worth of performance material.

 In the end, Edward believes that, though he has a lot to say, he likes to let his music "do all the talking."

 Look for this hot, up-and-coming artist to make an impression in your area soon.