The track’s intro shows you the intensity and the resonance that Joshua has in his voice. It amazed me how he can add rasp to the melody he sings while his vowels still sound open and clear…true talent and technique that go hand in hand and sound easy and effortless (but most definitely aren’t).

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As the track progresses beyond that intro it gains some pace and increases in tempo. The soft backing vocals and the piano add a lot of soulfulness and keep that Americana vibe during the verses and the first part of the chorus, but the intensity of the vocals is what controls the dynamics and steals the show. The drums and bass are mixed so well that they leave a space for the keyboard/organ and the backing vocals to add their impact…I can’t help but notice how beautifully the track is mixed.

The bridge section is the most charming part of this song for me, as it crescendos with the guitar and some high notes, cools down, then builds up again to start another chorus. The chorus repeats in the outro with a few accents from the guitar and then the song closes in the most charming way you can think of.

All in all, this track is an undeniable masterpiece. The quality of the production allows for every instrument and every element to be heard, and the arrangement of the song is beautiful and touches your soul from the first time you listen to it.

The video features Joshua playing acoustic guitar while singing with hints of ashes and some cinematic scenery, all bathed in a warm red hue that emphasizes the song’s emotional theme of hurt and grief. I also believe that the red hue has a strong resemblance to fire and the album’s title as well.

The song itself is a heart-wrenching Americana ballad that delves into the aftermath of a broken relationship, exploring the pain and confusion that often comes with it. The lyrics powerfully convey feelings of betrayal and regret, with the ultimate realization that “The truth is the only thing that lasted, to rise from the ashes”. Joshua’s storytelling and emotional voice are flawless combined with an equally heartfelt music to bring us a full sonic experience that will touch anyone’s heart. The music features an acoustic guitar playing rhythm by Joshua himself, a laid-back drum line by Zak St. John, a melodic piano line and background beautiful organ by Michael Webb, backing vocals harmonies by Candace Devine, and emotional lap steel guitar lines by Tony Paoletta.

Overall, “Ashes” is a well-crafted and highly relatable song that is sure to touch many listeners. It explores the depths of pain and heartbreak, while also offering a glimmer of hope and resilience that can help one move on and feel better. The song’s authenticity and emotional depth is something to appreciate, making it an excellent addition to Joshua’s already impressive discography.

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The warm guitar tone and soothing vocals are the first things that welcome you once you play No Stopping Us. Joshua Ketchmark’s bright sound and melodies fill the song with mood-lifting vibes as he takes us on a beautiful sound trip. Listening more to No Stopping Us, I started to realize how laid-back it sounds, Ketchmark has done an amazing effort in writing, arranging, and layering several overlapping instruments all in perfect harmony, producing such a colorful catchy tune that gets you hooked from the 1st listen. Joshua Ketchmark‘s deeply emotional approach lyrically, vocally, and musically makes the listener feel a deep bond with the song taking shape as he/she is listening, its fluid heartfelt melodies drew a smile off my face as I’m playing it over and over again. 

I don’t know if this is a thing but, I’d like to call No Stopping Us a modern country piece, its well-constructed structure, and dynamic progression kept me hooked till the end. Looking forward to more from Joshua Ketchmark, cheers!

I’m really impressed with the guitar in the song, especially those kickass licks. I’m usually not a country fan, but this song really got to me! The perfect fusion of alt and country, making country accessible to those who usually do not listen to traditional country music. The line “I wont ask how you want to be remembered, How could I ever forget?” is such a raw line, I had to sit down for a second and contemplate the beautiful lyrics. 

All in all, with this amazing songwriting, a kickass lineup, and a sexy fusion of alternative and country music, Ketchmark is bound to get into the spotlight. I never heard something like this before and I am excited to hear what Ketchmark has in store for us in the future!

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