The Misses

Joshua Ketchmark’s album The Misses represents a significant milestone in the Peoria, Illinois-born singer-songwriter’s journey through music. With roots influenced by the eighties and the era of MTV, Ketchmark has navigated between Los Angeles and Tennessee, honing his craft alongside artists, and collaborating with esteemed producers. This latest ten-track release showcases his enviable creative drive, resulting in a collection of rock and Americana-based tunes that resonate with authenticity.

Ketchmark’s distinctive approach combines fervent arena rock energy with evocative storytelling, steering clear of the superficial adult-contemporary sound prevalent on mainstream radio today. The album opens with the dynamic track “Cold Feet,” where beefy guitar tones and Ketchmark’s powerful vocal delivery immediately captivate. Following this is “Make No Apologies,” characterized by pristine guitar strums that elevate the song to euphoric heights, setting the tone for the rest of the album.

As The Misses unfolds, the music grows grander in scope, while still maintaining a sense of familiarity. Tracks like “Come True” and “Dancehall Blues” exemplify Ketchmark’s emotional depth and creativity, reflecting the tumultuous experiences that have shaped him as an artist. The nostalgic “1988” transports listeners back to more innocent, hopeful times, while “Can’t Be Your Friend” and “Her Voice in My Head” delve into the complexities of personal relationships with intense emotional grit.

The album feels like a diary, revealing Ketchmark’s thoughts and experiences in a way that grants the songs both space and depth. His strong gift for rhythm and melody shines throughout, particularly in tracks like “Rock & Roll” and “Those Were the Days.” With The Misses, Ketchmark delivers an album filled with craft and emotional intensity, perfectly capturing the essence of the human experience through music.