MARK JONES & 20 PACES

Hometown: Spring, TX

Genres: Country

Label: Double X Productions

In the ever changing environment of Texas music, it's more important than ever to stand out from the crowd. Having a 6'7" lead singer goes a long way in helping Mark Jones and Twenty Paces stand out from the crowd, or at least above it. Add in a healthy dose of soaring vocal harmonies and well crafted songs, and it's not hard to hear the difference as well.

Already in XXP's short life as a band they've drawn comparisons to regional acts such as Brandon Rhyder and Wade Bowen. They're more Tom Petty than they are George Strait, but more Michael Martin Murphy than Lynyrd Skynyrd. More Train than Bob Wills, but more Clint Black than Led Zeppelin. However if asked to list their influences, all of those names are going to come up in the conversation at some point.

Comprised of Mark Jones (vocals, guitar, mandolin), Josh Norman (vocals, bass), Wayne McCrary (guitar), and Stephen Elizondo (percussion), this four piece, Houston based outfit has just completed a live EP (recorded at Dosey Doe's in The Woodlands, Tx) and is set to assume a full touring schedule this summer. Also in the works for the summer of 2011 is a full studio CD, as well as a live DVD concert shoot.

Take the time to listen to the music or come to a show and judge for yourself. The band's mantra is simple, "We play two kinds of songs. The one's we write, and the one's we like. We hope one of them becomes your favorite."

For more information email booking@markjonesandtwentypaces.com

“These guys will be making major waves in Texas music. Their sound is fresh and unique and sounds like nothing else, but it is still distinctly Texas. One of our favorite up and coming acts. ”

— Steve Said - Owner of Dosey Does, The Woodlands

“I need a grilled cheese and an IV. Stat.”

— Mark, after a Westfield's gig

“Yeah, it's called being a rock star, Jack! Look it up in the dictionary . It's right next to "#?*! you!" ”

— Stainer

“You boys are great!”

— Mark's Mom