Jesse Ruben to play at Croc Rock

What do you get when you give a guy who looks like Corey Matthews from Boy Meets World a guitar? Acoustic magic.

Jesse Ruben, singer songwriter extraordinaire, will be performing this Friday, April 30, at World Café Live in Philadelphia as part of his recent CD release tour.

As a fourth-generation musician, Ruben was born with a desire and a love for music. At the age of seven, he began taking piano lessons for nine consecutive years, but it wasn't until age sixteen, when he got his hands on a beginner guitar, that he felt connected to the instrument. Ruben's love for the guitar flourished. With a passion and talent for songwriting, Ruben continued his education at Berklee College of Music and graduated in May 2008.

Ruben released his first album Aiming for Honesty in January 2008 and following that date, he toured relentlessly across the coasts to spread his music. In the past, Ruben has opened for Ryan Cabrera and Jewel, and he has toured with good friend Kyle Patrick.

Aiming for Honesty received major radio airplay on both college and commercial stations. Most of the tracks off the CD have a combined influence of pop, rock, jazz and folk, which includes "A Lack of Armor," a song about a heartbroken couple who can't seem to fit together. The song, which is a fan favorite, gained popularity after playing in an episode of April 2009's One Tree Hill.

Love isn't the only thing Ruben sings about. Other tracks include "Point Me in the Right Direction, " a song written about a soldier's conflict and unhappiness with war. In "Advice," Ruben speaks to his self-conscious and addresses his inner writer, asking if the "man who writes the music" in his head has retired. "Standing Strong" is about not letting anyone bully you around while "Song for Zack" is a heartbreaking tale about being dedicated to a friend, but fans are dealt with a pick-me-up in "You Look Lost," an upbeat song.

Now in April 2010, Ruben is releasing his sophomore album The Ones That Matter. According to his Myspace blog, Ruben recorded fourteen songs for the album and had to choose only twelve for the final release.

"Bleecker and 6th" is about a couple that meets in New York City, "Love, Don't Turn Your Back On Me Now" is about the excitement of first falling in love. "Safe" is about a crush Ruben had after meeting a girl on a cruise ship and reuniting with her seven years later. Although the back story is funny, the song has a beautiful melody.

Every song Ruben sings has a significant meaning to him, and it is quite apparent that his songs are straight from heart to pen, pen to paper, paper to brain, brain to vocal chords and vocal chords to mic.

Not only is Ruben talented, but he also remains down to earth and humble in conversation. Ruben first lures in audience members with his infectious charm. He's got the face of a baby with dimples and baby blues as he makes connections with the crowds through conversations and jokes about love gone wrong, long distance and young kids who misinterpret his song meanings.

After Ruben tours Boston, New York City and Fairfield, he will be back at Crocodile Rock in Allentown on May 7. On his Facebook page, Ruben stated, "It is going to be the most incredible experience of my life, and I would love for you to be a part of it." Check out Jesse Ruben's tour dates at myspace.com/jesserubenmusic.