Alan Merrilees is long time guitarist/singer who has steadily moved into songwriting over the last ten years. As a musician he is a singer and guitarist in a cover band called Strange Brew. He has appeared at a number of jams over six years, such as the Tom's Royal jam, and played slide guitar and blues and rock classics. He believes music should include invention and adventure. As a songwriter he looks for direct and accessible structures that pique interest lyrically and musically. Being a child of the 60's he likes songs with points of view, stories, or messages, or intriguing description. Melody, harmony, and rhythm should serve to carry the song and open exciting possibilities. Each song is an opening to understanding. He is currently working towards the release of a CD/online release of all original songs which is being recorded by Chris with the Hat. This will be followed by the recording of his second full length CD, most of which is already written. A small group will be formed to play live shows in the new year in support of the CD/online release.