JOHN MCMANUS is a Philadelphia-area singer-songwriter who independently produced and released his solo debut, SIDE ONE, in February 2004. The CD features five of John's original songs. The CD was produced by JOHN MCMANUS, recorded and mixed by Steven LaFashia at Resonant Recording and mastered by Peter Humphreys at Masterwork Recording. The spark that ignited John's interest in music was when---at age 13---he witnessed the video for Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" while leaving the house for a school function. He started molding his unique musical vision after graduating from Penn State in December 2001. He began performing as a solo artist at area open mics. Growing confident, he formed the band JUMPSHIP in September 2002. The band began arranging for John's songs and played open mic nights in the area. From September 2002 to June 2003, John consistently entertained crowds as the band's singer and rhythm guitarist. John's artistic journey has come full circle and he is currently performing as a solo artist in the Greater Philadelphia area. He has been booked in two states and his music can be requested on WSTW 93.7 FM and WXPN 88.5 FM. He has lent his time and talents to benefit worthy causes, such as Delaware Hospice. On January 8, 2005, John did a Tsunami Benefit Show at the Bellefonte Café in Wilmington. John's diverse musical influences include the Beatles, R.E.M., The Smiths, Nirvana, Ryan Adams, Jesse Malin, The Clash, The Posies and Caroline's Spine. Despite these influences, JOHN MCMANUS creates passionate, original and honest music. He performs three to four times a week and appreciates all of the support he is given. John works very hard on his writing and performing craft and is focused on fulfilling his artistic dreams. He is an independent artist and maintains his website http://www.john-mcmanus.com THE BELLE SESSIONS COMING EARLY 2008!! Hear tracks from it NOW at http://www.myspace.com/johnmcmanus and http://www.myspace.com/thekingsofamerica. REVIEWS: 3 STARS "...Side One consists of five mid-tempo acoustic rock numbers about all the right subjects: love, girls, life and you know, stuff. John McManus's saving grace, in the world of local singer-songwriters, is that he seems to sing naturally, and doesn't sound like he's had some vocal coach teaching him to sing "properly." Nothing new to be found here, but still an enjoyable listen, and from what I hear, a hard-working performer. Probably a hit with the college crowd." ---ORIGIVATION MAGAZINE, November 2004. QUOTES: "Recording John's Side One was a great experience. He was all-business in the studio, quickly laying down quality performances with a keen sense of what he wanted sonically." - Steve LaFashia (Producer/Engineer, Guitarist/Keyboardist of Jealousy Curve)