By FARAH

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

POSITIONING itself as a platform for undiscovered musical talent, Mojo’s Restaurant and Bar is beginning its “Acoustic Nights” – a weekly event that will feature Bahamian artists performing R&B, soul and jazz.

Bahamian singer Nevandria will be the first of many musicians to perform at the restaurant on May 13 when “Acoustic Nights” kick off.

“It is a new weekly event that is focused on introducing Bahamians to the amazing amount of talent we have within our community of musicians. The idea is to give young or new musicians a space to showcase their talent,” said Joey Gaskins, Jr, co-owner of Mojo’s.

Each artist will perform every Tuesday for an entire month, with Nevandria starting things off. She will perform from 9pm to 11pm.

“We will feature one of our favourite young Bahamian songbirds, Nevandria, as our first artist. I first heard Nevandria singing at one of our favourite spots, the Daily Grind, and we couldn’t believe how talented she was. She was singing back-up and we thought that she should have her own spotlight,” he said.

Joey said Nevandria was given creative freedom to arrange her setlist. She will alternate between guitarist Nano Mira and pianist Gardner Calvin for her accompaniment.

“We gave her freedom to choose her own setlist. She was kind enough to ask if I wanted to hear anything personally. We have asked that they keep the music in the areas of jazz, R&B and soul. Some artists will likely do acoustic versions of pop songs as well,” he said.  

The next artist to be featured during “Acoustic Nights” will be Shantwon Martin, who recently returned from auditions at the University of Illinois, Chicago.

Joey told In Ya Ear that he is confident that “Acoustic Nights” will be a success and attract patrons who are “hungry for new experiences”.

“ ‘Acoustic Nights’ at Mojo’s will, I think, be a full sensory experience. We are offering great food, drinks and ambiance, and now great music from Bahamian talent. You cannot beat that.

Our restaurant is not very big, so the focus on acoustic music, vocals and an instrument, will allow for vocalists to truly show their ability, while keeping the restaurant a space for comfortable dining,” he said.

Nevandria will begin recording this summer and hopes she can garner a local fan base as a result of her performance during the “Acoustic Nights” events.

Mojo’s Restaurant and Bar was officially opened on New Year’s Eve by owners Joey Gaskins, Jr and Maurisa Glinton.

Joey, a former party promoter and budding academic, and classically trained chef Maurisa, carefully chose each aspect of this new venture. From the very texture and colour of the napkins to the spices and garnishes used.

Located at the Sun Fun Resort, West Bay Street, Mojo’s offers a taste of New Orleans and the American South fused with flavours of the Bahamas and the West Indies, along with signature drinks, infused liquors and craft beers.