Uncommon Ground ^ Justin Roth

Justin Roth
"Justin's music comes from a giving place, not a 'look at me' place. Even though he has the ability to do 'look at me' stuff, he holds back." - John Gorka, Red House Records recording artist

Blending intricate guitar work, smooth vocal melodies and a groove, Justin offers up a rousing mix of new acoustic folk and has been compared to the likes of Michael Hedges, David Wilcox and John Mayer. A fan once said that when Justin plays guitar, “it’s more than just an instrument but an extension of himself.” Seeing him perform, you see what they mean. Take an eye off him for a second, and you would swear that there were more instruments on stage.

"Fans of Leo Kottke or Michael Hedges will find themselves right at home with the intricate guitar work...beautifully written lyrics." - San Francisco Art Magazine

Most recently, Justin has been touring with John Gorka everywhere from Alaska to New York City opening shows in some of the finest venues in the country. As his audience has grown, Justin has also shared the stage with many of the most well known contemporary folk artists including: Shawn Colvin, David Wilcox, Martin Sexton, Ellis Paul and Cheryl Wheeler. Standing ovations and encores are not uncommon at Justin's performances (even as an opener!) and is a sure sign at how he keeps winning audiences’ approval. Repeat performances are also a common occurrence, returning time and time again by request of not only the fans, but also the venues themselves.

"Justin Roth was a smash when he opened at The Ark for John Gorka last fall, selling out a big stack of CDs and nearly stealing the show." - The Ark, Ann Arbor, MI

As a self-taught fingerstyle guitarist, Justin’s inventive technique leaves people asking themselves ‘how’d he do that?’ as he expresses a new voice of the guitar. This voice is what creates his unique and engaging sound. His songwriting is an artful mix ranging from insightful metaphors, to clever stories with a twisted sense of humor, to the familiar imagery of the world around us.

OTHER AWARDS & RECOGNITION

New Folk Finalist - Kerrville Folk Festival (2004 & 2005)
Troubadour Contest Honorable Mention - Telluride Bluegrass Festival (2005)
Troubadour Contest Alternate - Telluride Bluegrass Festival (2004)
Songwriter Showcase Honorable Mention - Rocky Mountain Folks Festival (2004)
Songwriting Competition Finalist - Susquehanna Folk Festival (2004)
Best Song Award Nominee, “She Dances” - Just Plain Folks (2004)
Emerging Artist Showcase Finalist - Falcon Ridge Folk Festival (2003)
Songwriter Competition Finalist - Highway 61 Folk Festival (2003)

"One of the best singer/songwriter/guitarists I've heard in ages...Justin Roth is a flat out talent. Roth rivals a young Willy Porter...His vocal delivery is smooth. His guitar playing is extraordinary."
- The Journal Times, Racine, WI