Rufus Wainwright is making one big noise at the moment. Whether it's contemporary musicians praising him from the rafters or raving critics shouting his name, everyone wants a piece of the action. Rufus Wainwright

Which is why Gwen Stefani leant him her house to shoot his latest video, why he won a part in the recent box office smash The Aviator, why he will also be seen in the forthcoming Merchant Ivory film, Heights, starring Glen Close, and why REM's Michael Stipe said: "Rufus stands next to Nina Simone." Praise indeed. But then the praise has been coming thick and fast for Rufus ever since he launched his self-titled debut album in 1998 which resulted in Rolling Stone naming him 'New Artist of The Year' because of his "sexy handed, lush romantic, piano driven, melodic pop".

2005 shows no sign of being any different and so far has been quite a year for Rufus. Fresh from supporting Keane in Europe, Rufus has been enjoying overwhelming critical acclaim for his triumphant live shows and new album, 'Want Two'.

And before hitting the summer festivals he is managing to pack Oxford's New Theatre into his busy schedule after which he joins Keane at the Wireless Festival in Hyde Park and then Brian Wilson at the Cork Festival on June 30th.

Long term admirer Elton John has also asked Rufus to support him in Dublin July 2nd, describing him as the "as-yet unheralded American treasure" and is just one his high profile fans.

But then judging by his musical heritage its not surprising that Rufus is musically gifted, what is an achievement is breaking through, despite his parents reputations, to make a name for himself.

Rufus is the son of singer/songwriter Loudon Wainwright III and folk singer Kate McGarrigle and started playing the piano at the age of six and touring as part of the McGarrigle Sisters and Family Band when he was just 13.

As a teenager Rufus penned several songs for Canadian film soundtracks and at 14 was nominated for the Best Song award at the Genie awards (the Canadian equivalent of the Oscars). By 1996 the teenager was signed to Dreamworks Records.

'Want Two', is Rufus Wainwright's eagerly anticipated new studio album and the follow up to his critically acclaimed, 'Want One'. All tracks were written by Rufus and it was recorded in London and New York.

Having just toured the UK extensively on two sold out UK tours, the first with his mother and aunt, acclaimed folk singers Kate and Anna McGarrigle and sister Martha Wainwright and then with his own amazing band, he's back again for a third round.

And having spent much of 2004 in the UK cementing his reputation as both a thrilling live performer and a recording artist on the verge of widespread public recognition, he's now back to sing from the fourth album.

Don't miss him when he appears at Oxford's New Theatre tonight. Box office on 0870 6063500.