I photographed John-Alex Mason in 2007 and 2011- both at Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest. However, the first time I saw John-Alex Mason was at a public radio benefit in Salida called Chickenstock. Not only did my group, TVS and two fingers, perform, but we also judged the funky chicken contest!! In between I got to hear Mason's deep, gritty blues as a solo performer. It wasn't until I saw him again in Fort Collins in 2007 that I realized what kind of instrument he played- this funky cigarbox guitar. This thing wasn't just for show, but its primal simplicity ably underscored Mason's blues. It was with satisfaction that I got to see Mason again in Fort Collins in 2011- this time with a band and a fully dynamic sound that I would say was a full realization of his music. He seemed at the top of his game while remaining completely faithful to his dark, earthy musical roots.Photos and text by Tim Van Schmidt