(7pm) -Oakshott, Alex Jimenez, Jordan Carp, Johnny Nash February 7, 2013

The Usual Suspects Songwriter Showcase returns to 50 Mason Social House for a brand new season. Show #12 features:

Oakshott http://www.laurenoakshott.com/

Oakshott sounds just as the name implies: beauty, strength, and an opening into which a hidden place is brought to light. Oakshott's personal illumination and healing is reflected through song. Imagine a single ray of light illuminating a darkened landscape. Minimalist piano and guitar riffs, soft and innocent vocals, and a mercurial electric guitar are weaved into a lyrical story with deep roots. Oakshott’s music infuses a space with spirit and the listener with calm. Her rhythm is embryonic and her melodies stay with you. Oakshott has received comparisons to Danny Elfman, Ani DiFranco, Iron and Wine, Sarah McLachlan, Evanescence, Tori Amos, Azure Ray, Erik Satie, and 12th century abbess and composer Hildegard von Bingen.

Johnny Nash http://www.reverbnation.com/johnnash

John Nash's music explores the relationship between force and flow. Born in New York City, he has lived in Colorado, New Mexico, New England, California and Oregon, as well as a stint studying abroad in Europe. His travels and vagabond childhood contribute to his penchant for observation and compassionate insight. His songwriting is driven by exploring the deep truths bound in paradox and his growing realization of how much he doesn't know about what he doesn't know. John's musical influences include Bob Dylan, James Taylor, Neil Young, Mark Knopfler, Bruce Cockburn, Eric Taylor, Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Harry Manx.

Jordan Carp http://jordancarp.com/

“A homegrown source of inspiration with the Low Growl of Peter Gabriel and the guitar chops of Suzanne Vega and we don’t hand out such compliments lightly.” - The Boston Globe. Besides working as a sideman for various projects and teaching private guitar lessons, Jordan is currently recording his sixth LP, “California Whines”, since graduating from Berklee College of music in 2001 with a B.A. in guitar/composition. Studio recordings include: Light Source (2002), Ivy Growing on Brick (2004), The Dark Architecture (2006), Spaceman (2008), Slampig (2011). Jordan’s songs have been featured in various films, television and other media settings including works for IFC, CBS, MTV and Eddie Bauer. He’s also composed and recorded music for over a dozen indie and student films/documentaries.

Alex Jimenez http://www.reverbnation.com/alexjimenez

Host Alex Jimenez has been playing music since his parents bought him his first guitar when he was 12. His music has dark acoustic overtones, heavy on the rhythm, and influenced by bands such as Blue Movie, Ride and Live. But you can also hear the country and folk influences in his playing. It’s this blend of styles, beautiful guitar melodies and pounding rhythms that give his music a unique yet familiar sound. March 2012 saw the release of his first album, a duet with drummer Mark Edgar called 'The Acoustik Projekt', and he is eagerly writing and getting tracks together for his second solo outing.

Alex is honored to be a part of a thriving songwriter community here in the Bay Area, and is honored to share the stage with them monthly, through the Usual Suspects Songwriter Showcase.

This is an early show and music starts at 7pm!

No Cover, 21+

http://www.facebook.com/UsualSuspectsShowcase

Official Website: https://www.facebook.com/events/465088760207126/