The four top talents at a recent "open mike" night at the Watchung Arts Center were considered compelling enough to ask back, almost immediately. All will play as part of the same program on Saturday evening, April 3, making this a great bargain for folk and blues fans. Tickets for the entire evening are only $10, which includes cake and coffee during intermission.

The 8 PM show will feature four acts performing well-known and original tunes within the blues and folk genre. The atmosphere will be informal, with great acoustics and up-close seating enhancing the listening experience.

Metuchen's Aaron Leone wrote the book on playing guitar -- literally. His Guitar Methods is now a standard in the field. Only recently has the classically-trained musician expanded into composing his own music, yet he has been embraced by audiences at the Minstrel Coffeehouse, Brookdale College and other venues. His Cablevision appearance and new CD (The Magician) will reach a still wider audience for his acoustic steel-stringed guitar work.

Michael Montemurro, on the other hand, has been writing and performing for over 20 years. His composition "Little Things" has been sung at Carnegie Hall by no less than Esther Satterfield of the Chuck Mangione group. The prestigious Nashville Songwriters Association International selected another of his tunes for their summer seminar, and Michael himself has performed for them at several locations in Nashville, with yet a fourth appearance scheduled for this coming August.Singer/songwriter Alvin Madison manages to generate a full-band sound even as a soloist. He's played guitar, keyboards and harmonica since childhood, resulting in a unique presentation style that incorporates the best elements of blues, rock and folk. A favorite at the clubs and coffeehouses, he's recently played Crossroads, The Back Porch, Bobby B's and more, opening for Roger McGuinn of The Birds and other top blues bands. His is a compelling, dynamic style that supercharges audiences.

The pair known to fans as just Brian and Charlie has only recently combined forces. Each has been an independent music writer for five or more years, but together they blend their talents into a distinctive sound and style. As a team they convey a sense of togetherness that implies a much longer musical association. Their Watchung appearance is the start of a performance schedule that will take them throughout the region.

Given the intimacy of the Center's Gallery, reservations are strongly suggested. They may be made by calling (908) 753-0190, leaving a message outside the 1-to-4 PM office hours. Tickets will be held for payment at the door.