Joshua Ketchmark

It is amazing what music can do in the respect of changing your mood, how you think or maybe even certain aspects of your life. Joshua Ketchmark has out done himself on his latest release, “The Bittersweet” and has the ability to do all the above.

The CD is pop music with an edge. The edge being that it has heart and you can feel it from the very depths of your soul. This music speaks the language of universal appeal and evokes passion on so many levels. It gets your attention right away and now that you are engaged his vocals kick in and leaves you spinning. He has a smooth sophistication that is belted with such conviction it can make a believer out of anyone.

This is the first release of 3 EP’s. His goal is to release 12 songs for 2012. I would say this is a very fine start. I do not mean to get ahead of myself but I can’t wait to hear what else is in store. He is a powerhouse house with the full package.

If you are looking to be entertained, then look no further. Joshua Ketchmark is a serious contender and is taking this music scene and making it his own. “The Bittersweet” is hooky and confidently executed. You only have to listen to it once and the songs will live in your head long after the player has stopped.
- Skope Magazine

First appearing in 2008 with ‘List of Regrets’, an ambitious debut record that garnered significant praise form the media, followed up in 2011 with the equally impressive and well-received ‘Karus Cruentus’, the latest chapter in Ketchmark’s still-young career is about to be written.

'The Bittersweet' is the 1st of a series of 3 EPs from Ketchmark scheduled for release this year, showcasing his eclectic writing style and varied influences. “Some songs aren’t meant to sit on the shelf.” he says, and in that spirit these EPs take flight.
Produced by Denny Smith (fORMER/The Great Affairs) & Michael Saint-Leon (George Thorogood, Buddy Guy), and recorded at The Switchyard in Nashville, TN, The four songs that make up ‘The Bittersweet’ are markedly divergent yet bound by an odd common aesthetic that somehow allows them to make complete sense as a collection.

"Covered in Roses" is the opening track; a slightly U2-inspired number, recalls 'List of Regrets', with its intimate verses flowing effortlessly into an electrifying chorus that is Ketchmark's forte. The first single "All These Eyes" is the result of a collaboration with producer Smith, in which he delivers an understated and powerful performance on the yearningly yet heart felt lyrics, a track co-written by producer and artist. "The Take", the most straight-ahead, roaring and ferocious rock tune of the bunch, comes off like a cross between Jimmy Eat World and the Foo Fighters, unapologetically brash with drums heavily featured in the forefront, and coated in layers of guitar. Finally, "Cigarettes and Wine" is signature Ketchmark, with its cinematic lyrics and fresh way of evoking sadness and emotional abandon. Showcasing another of Joshua's strengths, his ability to take something intensely personal and give it universal appeal.

Ketchmark and Smith have been friends for many years, and their joint history and shared vision have culminated in ‘The Bittersweet’, the first glimpse into what 2012 has to offer from Joshua Ketchmark. - Mi2N.com