This Honest Age by Jen Woodhouse

Fusing jazz with folk-rock, Jen scats her way through ten original tunes, swooping, swinging, and soaring, playing with her voice like a horn player would solo over changes. Her thought-provoking lyrics contain many layers of metaphor that only multiple listens can uncover. Though Jen's songs are born out of heartache and pain, they are fueled by a fierce hope and optimistic wonder.

Born in Texas, raised in the Philippines, relocated to the Heart of Dixie, followed by a move across the ocean to Europe and back again to sweet home Alabama, Jen's diverse and cultured childhood no doubt influences Jen's music today. Blessed with a voice rich and full of color and emotion, Jen began cultivating her musical talents singing in school and church choirs.

Jen continued on her path and found herself in Philadelphia, attending the reputable University of the Arts on a Musical Theater scholarship. Four years of living in a city rich in culture and history deeply influenced Jen and her music, allowing her to evolve beyond her raw talent, studying under some of the most respected masters of theater, music, and dance. While in college, Jen traveled back and forth from Philly to New York City auditioning for musicals, attending Broadway plays, and playing at open mic nights. During her summer breaks, Jen was chosen to study with the Broadway Theater Project in Tampa. There, she trained with such legends as Gwen Verdon, Gregory Hines, and Ann Reinking, among many others.

Upon graduation, Jen's wandering toes couldn't stay planted for long. She packed her bags and headed to Chicago where she continued to focus on music and theater. Within months, she was performing at local venues, alongside jazz greats like Von Freeman.

Jen's first love has always been singing. However, after growing tired of singing jazz standards and cabaret songs in nightclubs, and living like a starving artist, Jen retraced her Southern roots back to Alabama where she found a dusty, old classical guitar in her dad's closet. She taught herself how to play and began composing her own songs. Soon she was performing in bars, clubs, and coffeehouses across the nation, from Atlanta to Los Angeles and back again, playing at various music festivals along the way, including Austin's biggest music fest, the 2005 South by Southwest.

Jen continues to tour extensively including dates across the United States, Canada, and Europe. Visit her on the web at www.jenwoodhouse.com for more info!

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