Allan Holdsworth is widely regarded by fans and musicians alike as one of the 20th century's most prominent guitarists. An innovator in both jazz and rock, Holdsworth's unique guitar voice and style has been pushing the limits of the electric guitar since the early '70s. An inductee of Guitar Player Magazine's Hall of Fame and five-time winner in their reader's poll, he is renowned for his work with the likes of Soft Machine, Bruford, and U.K. as well as his extensive solo catalog, exemplified by classics such as "I.O.U.", "Metal Fatigue," "Road Games," and "Sand." Holdsworth will be joined by Chad Wakerman on drums and Jimmy Johnson on bass. Wakerman, a phenomenally skilled jazz and rock drummer, has amassed a remarkable body of work including a seven-year association with Frank Zappa. He has also recorded six albums and toured with Allan Holdsworth. Johnson is one of the world's most requested and busiest electric bass sessionmen, and pioneer of the five string electric bass. In addition to being a long-time collaborator of Allan Holdsworth both in the studio and on the road, Johnson has also worked with Roger Hodgson, Roger Waters, Simon Phillips and countless others.

Denmark's Secret Oyster is a legendary jazz-rock supergroup from the '70s. The band's catalog is currently being remastered and reissued by The Laser's Edge label, which has revitalized the band to play live once again. Led by sax player Karsten Vogel, Secret Oyster were masters at walking the tightrope between jazz and rock, much like contemporaries like Mahavishnu Orchestra and Return to Forever. The band's tour de force, 1974's "Sea Son," features everything from dynamic counterpoint to psychedelic fury. Secret Oyster has never played in the United States until now. This once-in-a-lifetime performance is not to miss.

Originally formed for a musical one night stand, France's One Shot produces an appealling combination of Zeuhl and electric Miles Davis. Part of their influence is very apparent as bassist Philippe Buissonnet, keyboardist Emmanuel Borghi and guitarist James MacGaw all double-time with Magma. One Shot's music is full of tasty Fender Rhodes and smoky organ runs mixed together with dazzling Patrice Meyer-esque guitar work. Their latest release, "Ewaz Vader," was one of last year's top fusion albums (#3 on the Gagliarchives Radio Top 100 of 2006). One Shot's high-energy set will be the perfect kick-off to a fabulous weekend of music.

Allan Holdsworth (UK/US) with Chad Wackerman and Jimmy Johnson Allan Holdsworth - Guitar Chad Wackerman - Drums Jimmy Johnson - Bass More on Allan Holdsworth

Secret Oyster (Denmark) Karsten Vogel - Saxophone, Keyboards Claus Bøhling - Guitar Ole Streenberg - Drums Assi Roar - Bass Daniel Fridell - Keyboards More on Secret Oyster

One Shot (France) Emmanuel Borghi - Keyboards Philipppe Buissonnet - Bass James MacGaw - Guitar Daniel Jeand'heaur - Drums More on One Shot

NOTE: NEARfest ticketholders will be given the opportunity to purchase the same seats for the Fusion Friday. Please go to the NEARfest Tickets page for details.

PRICES: $49 for Pit, $44 for Orchestra, $39 for Grand Tier, $34 for Balcony (Seating chart)

Purchase Tickets:
• Zoellner Arts Center Box Office
• Online at ztickets.lehigh.edu
• By phone at 610-758-3295 using Visa, MC or AMEX