Napa, CA - (May 7, 2007) — From the U.S. to Europe to Asia, the new Rockapella continues to blaze trails sonically and geographically. Returning to Napa with new songs, new staging and new surprises, the five-man powerhouse continues to push a cappella to unexpected heights. This awe-inspiring quintet of vocal talent performs at the Napa Valley Opera House on Friday, May 25 and Saturday, May 26 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $35 and $30.

With an ever-expanding fan base, Rockapella are known as the “Kings of Contemporary A Cappella.” Individually, Rockapella consists of five technically trained musicians: high tenor, Scott Leonard, tenor, Kevin Wright, vocal percussionist, Jeff Thacher, bassist, George Baldi and tenor, John K. Brown.

Fifteen-year Rockapella veteran arranger, songwriter Scott Leonard adds, "This unprecedented collection of platinum talent has proven to be an explosive source of inspiration for new arrangements, new songs and new ideas. Working with such choice ingredients as the velvet bass of George Baldi, the champagne spark of John K. Brown, the golden throat of Kevin Wright and the utter thump of Jeff Thacher, creating for Rockapella has never been so much fun."

The five-man vocal phenomenon, known for their infectious blend of rhythm & blues soul and rock, have entertained millions of fans of all ages during their five years as the house band on the hit PBS show, “Where In The World is Carmen Sandiego?.” Millions have also seen Rockapella on television screens all over the country, showcasing their distinctive voices in commercial campaigns for major national brands including Folgers Coffee, Taco Bell and Budweiser.

The group was formed for the sheer love of performing; singing on New York City street corners with a hat out at their feet. They caught the eye of a producer putting together a television special titled "Do It A Cappella," hosted by filmmaker Spike Lee. This in turn led to a daily appearance on "Where In The World Is Carmen Sandiego?." Since then, Rockapella has become an international sensation, touring throughout the United States, Asia and Europe. Rockapella has released 20 albums over the last 18 years, with their most recent being “Live in Japan.”

On their current American tour, Rockapella’s musical lineup is jam-packed with a mix of their latest
material, including Rockapella-flavored versions of favorites like "Rock the Boat" and "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone," as well as new original songs like "Tonight" and "California Sad-Eyed Girl." Songs from the tour have been recorded on Rockapella’s CD release “Smilin’.”

All five of Rockapella’s members are accomplished musicians. Super-bass George Baldi was formerly a member of the band Boyz II Men; Kevin Wright previously achieved New York theater acclaim, co-starring with Cleo Laine, Lauren Hill and others in shows on and off-Broadway, and on national tours. Scott Leonard serves as the band’s leader, shaping Rockapella’s characteristic sound and writing original music for the group, as well as arranging and producing most of their material. John Brown has performed across the country, on Broadway and off-Broadway, and has shared stages with greats such as Phil Collins, Tina Turner and Julie Andrews. Rockapella boasts the jaw-dropping unique and powerful talents of Jeff Thacher, a pioneer and leader in the mouth percussion world, anchoring the group's instrument-less sound.

Rockapella has most recently been featured on CNN’s “American Morning”, NBC’s “Jane Pauley” and Fox’s “Fox and Friends,” in addition to performances on the “Tonight Show,” the “Today Show,” HBO with Whoopi Goldberg and with Billy Joel at Madison Square Garden. Even “Saturday Night Live” has recognized Rockapella in satirical spoof.

WHO: Rockapella
WHAT: Contemporary A Cappella
WHEN: Friday, May 25, 8 PM, Saturday, May 26, 8 PM
COST: $35/$30
WHERE: Napa Valley Opera House, 1030 Main Street, Napa, CA 94559
PUBLIC INFO: (707)-226-7372, www.NVOH.ORG
CONTACT: Teri Stevens, teri@nvoh.org, 707-603-2338