In the ever evolving music scene, 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 stand out from crowd, or at least above it. With a foundation of simplicity and truth, Mark Jones and his band are making a stir with their unmistakable sound. Like the troubadours who’ve inspired him, Mark’s songs take you on a personal journey that begins with being true to one’s self. Breaking Even, the debut album from Houston’s Mark Jones & Twenty Paces, delivers 12 candid and uncompromising alt-country tracks.

The son of a church music director, Jones started piano lessons at the age of six and sang in church and school choirs. Though this musical training held some influence, songwriting came to him by chance. Mark was pursuing and Agricultural Economics degree from Texas Tech University when the need to fulfill a fine art credit landed him in a songwriting class.

As a fifth-generation Texan, Mark’s deep ties to family form his unassuming attitude and honest perspective. Onstage, he prefers to skip the banter and allow the music to tell his story. “We strive to create music that makes sense,” Jones says. He draws from a diverse array of influences, but his greatest inspiration comes from outside the musical realm. A self-proclaimed mountain man a heart, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and the great outdoors.

His music has resonated with audiences all around Houston. “These guys will be making major waves in Texas music,” says Steve Said, owner of Dosey Doe. “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.”

2014 is going to be a great year for Mark Jones & Twenty Paces. With a full schedule ahead of them, they look forward to connecting with audiences and perfecting their blend of county and rock and roll. As Jones says, “We play two kinds of songs: the ones we write, and the ones we like. We hope one of them becomes your favorite.”