Artist description Joytown is a classic four-piece rock and roll band. Consisting of two guitars, bass and drums, the band has all the traditional rock and roll attributes while not succumbing to the limitations of the form. Though an original recording act, Joytown also plays a full range of covers enabling them to provide a full compliment of entertainment. Together this dynamic quartet of young artists brings together the best of tradition and originality.

Music Style Traditional rock and roll attributes while not succumbing to the limitations of the form.

Musical Influences Beatles, Stones, U2, Lenny Kravitz, & Matchbox 20

Similar Artists ^ See above list.

Artist History The original material on the eponymous debut draws from classics like the Beatles and Stones, as well as more contemporary artists like U2, Lenny Kravitz, and Matchbox 20. However, these are merely touchstones in a body of work with it’s own unique sound. While Joytown respects the ethos of punk, grunge, and other "attitude" based performance, it is not their particular cup of tea. Which is not to detract from the aggressive nature of tracks like "Freedom" or "Spinning", or their incendiary covers of artists like Jimi Hendrix, Violent Femmes, or Stevie Ray Vaughan. The fact is - this is a song-oriented band. The song has to make the grade on it’s own to warrant performance. Whether the material is original or "cover", Joytown is known for passionate delivery, which can only be fueled by a love of great music.

Group Members On drums, percussion, and vocals is Keith Mitchell. Keith has been performing professionally since the age of 14. Having studied music at the university level, Keith left school to begin recording and performing with national recording acts; such as, China Blue and Craig Robbins. Keith has done countless recording sessions for both jingles and album tracks. Keith’s strong harmony vocals add a quality to the Joytown sound reminiscent of the Eagles. On guitar and vocals is Barry Young. Barry has made his living for the last 10 years as a recording engineer without ever losing his love or talent for live performance. The most prolific songwriter of the group (Chris and Jace write together quite a bit), Barry tends to bring in finished material that the band then dissects and reforms. Barry also brings a unique, somewhat avant-garde approach to his instrument giving the band a fresh approach to the two-guitar formula. Also on guitar, vocals, and keyboards is Chris Raspante. Chris is the traditionalist of the group keeping the others from forgetting what rock and roll is about -- the guitar! As great a guitarist as Chris is, his keyboard abilities cannot be ignored. Chris is, like Barry, a very competent recording engineer. Together, Chris and Barry are a virtual production house incorporating an intuitive and inventive approach bringing together a great sound. Finally, on lead vocals and bass guitar is Jace Everett. Jace grew up singing and preaching in a ‘pew-jumpin’ church. The more things change… The charismatic front man has a blues inflected soulful voice that is as distinctive as it is powerful. As a bassist he keeps it simple and to the point, in keeping with the ‘song first’ approach of the band. Thus far, the principle songwriter of the group, his writing style tends toward the dramatic.

Albums Jowtown (2-15-2000)

Press Reviews "This band plays such a great collection of music they keep everybody in the audience happy . . . and the corporate planner looking good for having booked them". (Corporate planner - Sabre, Inc.) "I know I can book Joytown in virtually any environment with great success. Their professionalism and musicianship are beyond their years." (C.W. Kendall, Booking Agent - Dallas, Texas) "These guys are always the highlight of a multiple-bill show. People who have never seen them are always blown away. Great repeat business." (Stewart Schwensen, Talent Agent - Allen, Texas) "They not only keep a crowd, they bring an ever growing one with them. By far one of my best drawing groups." (Ron Farout, Club Owner - Hurst, Texas)

Location Euless, Texas - USA

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