Biography
You can call it many things: soulful, catchy, rocking. But none of these labels would properly describe the sound or style of Joshua Van Ness. Joshua's music borrows a little from the past, and projects an image of the future. The result is a perfect soundtrack for our times; sound that reflects our changing political climate, global economic struggles, rapidly advancing technology and, most importantly, the need to forget all of that stuff and just have FUN!
Joshua's honest; heart felt lyrics are a cross between poetry and conversation. His voice has the raspy, soulful quality of Chris Robinson (The Black Crowes) or Seal. Joshua's debut, full length solo album, DNA, (released independently in November of 2008) features 10 songs that nimbly jump from hard rocking tunes, soulful romps and even showcases Van Ness's softer side. Despite the album's versatility, it sounds shockingly cohesive. The album was named to BlowupRadio.com's top 5 albums of 2008. In 2009, the lead track, "Get together," earned an Asbury Park Music Awards nomination for Song of the Year
The release of "DNA" fueled a highly successful run of gigs with Joshua's band MOR as well as more intimate solo/acoustic performances. All of Joshua's shows feature his calling card, soul soaked voice and down to earth manner fused with the type of undeniable energy one would expect to see at an arena rock concert. However, there's no over the top fan fare…just quality songs, emotionally committed performances and a bond that you can witness as it forms between artist and the audience.
Summer 2011 will see the release of Joshua’s new album. “Discovering the Universe” on MY OWN LITTLE WORLD RECORDS. Of the new effort, Joshua says "What excites me is that this is going to be a fun listen! My last album has grooves, and you can move to it… but it's a little dark. This new record is the opposite: even the deep songs make me feel good! We've made a record that you can play at a party without resulting to bubble gum tactics!"
Joshua Van Ness & MOR will be on the road this summer. Check www.facebook.com/menofrock or www.myspace.com/joshuavanness for updates!
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