- Ghost of You -

I have given myself to these songs entirely, pouring my heart and soul into them time & time again. They are the raw and unhidden truths of my last two years and all that I have faced in that time. From finding a love that I never knew could exist, to searching for an understanding and view through the lens of grief, as my mother passed away. These melodies and words have washed over me again and again, guiding me through my darkest hours and providing me with the light of hope. They are the reflection of this time where love & loss, beauty & pain, have all lived so closely together.

That truth is echoed throughout these songs as the album took shape, transforming from an acoustic guitar and voice, to a full band sound. The record is weaved together by intimate “ballad-like” folk songs, shifting gears into the electric and passion filled rock-band performances. Ghost of You is brutally honest, open hearted and does not shy away from the human emotions that we all navigate in this lifetime.

The record came to life at Parkway Sounds Studio in the high desert of Bend, Oregon. Long time friend Scott Oliphant and Austin TX native known for his analog recordings, engineered and co-produced these songs. Adam Beam is the drummer on this record and is one of my oldest childhood friends. Our families are tied together through music and love, and go back long before we were born. Duncan Galvin played bass and our friendship was built upon music. We were both luthiers pursuing the art of sound and building acoustic instruments some 8 years ago.

The importance of putting together a band that understood the heart & sincerity of these songs was always at the center. The four of us in a weekend created the sound & energy that became the backbone & blueprint for this record.

I grew up listening to our family’s piano fill the walls with melody and emotion. My older sister Ruth Chadd recreated these past-times & poured her heart & soul into these songs, equal to that of my own. Raymond Richards pedal-steel brought to surface even more, the richness and sentiment of these songs. His melodies move between the vocals & piano, creating a fullness & balance to the overall sound.

It is my goal and my hope with “Ghost of You” to share the raw and honest truth of my experience during this time. These songs can shine a light on love and can remind us that we are not alone: no matter how dark or painful it can be.

This record was produced by Joel Chadd & Scott Oliphant, recorded and engineered by Scott Oliphant @ Parkway Sounds Studio, mixed by Raymond Richards @ Red Rockets Glare Recording and mastered by Rob Dennler @ Fool’s Paradise Mastering.

- About the Artist -

Joel Chadd writes and plays songs that are brutally honest and open hearted. His themes are universal, but the songs feel as if they were written just for you. His melodies dance between soulful vocals and passionate guitar playing, drawing the listener ever-so-close.

Born into a music-filled household in Corvallis, Oregon, he has been creating & playing music as a singer songwriter for the last decade. Joel’s songwriting is a pursuit to understand & process the innermost feelings of joy & sorrow. It is an opportunity to bridge gaps, to bring others together and to connect with his own community & the world around him. His commitment to songwriting & music is ultimately a commitment to himself to slow down, pay attention to what matters in his life and to weave those lessons into songs that allow both him & the listener to heal & grow. These are songs that explore the full range of human emotions we all navigate.

- Written by Travis Wiggins -