From the vibrant streets of St. Louis, Missouri, emerges an indie/alternative rock voice that encapsulates the fervent passion of songwriting with a touch of raw energy. He’s known as Stoker, but behind that mysterious moniker, is the soulful essence of Joseph Belsher.
Belsher’s initial dalliance with the world of music can be traced back to the cacophonous corridors of middle school. Those were the days drenched in the ardor of youth, a time when every chord struck was an exploration, and every gig felt like a revolution. The adolescent excitement wasn’t just about the applause or the encore, but about the pure, unfiltered thrill of creating and sharing a piece of one’s soul.
With influences that dance through the dreamy spirals of shoegaze, touch the deep-rooted sentiments of folk, and embrace the zest of power pop, Stoker’s sonic palette is a tantalizing blend. It promises listeners more than just a melody; it pledges an emotional journey, backed by lyrics that are as raw as they are poetic. Each song is like a chapter from Belsher’s life, vividly painting his experiences, desires, and reflections.
However, the road to “Programmed to Exist” wasn’t paved overnight. It wasn’t a fleeting moment of inspiration or a hasty decision. Instead, it stands as a testament to a journey that spans years, a voyage filled with milestones and missteps, crescendos and silences. It is a chronicle of Belsher’s evolution as an artist, charting his highs, acknowledging his lows, and celebrating the relentless spirit that kept him going.
To truly understand Stoker’s magnetic pull, one must venture into the mind of Belsher himself. When asked about his early influences, Elliot Smith’s name reverberated like a mantra. Smith’s audacious approach to chord structures and his relentless focus on crafting the song rather than chasing fame struck a chord with young Belsher. It wasn’t just about creating music; it was about curating emotions, painting a canvas with chords and vocals, and telling stories that resonate.
Now, to the magnum opus, “Programmed to Exist”. Released on September 15, 2023, this album stands as a testament to Belsher’s evolution as an artist. Spread across nine tracks, it’s not just a musical journey but an expedition through a complex emotional terrain. Each song, meticulously crafted, showcases a panorama of feelings — from the subtlest hints of introspection to the boldest strokes of unbridled passion.
Tracks like “Your Arms” seamlessly blend the gentle cadences of indie melodies with the heartfelt lyrics that tug at the soul. Then there’s “Let You In”, a song that manages to both envelop the listener in its warmth and challenge them with its depth. Together, they serve as the pillars of the album, drawing listeners into the very heart of Belsher’s universe. As the tracks flow, they create a magnetic aura, an intimate whisper that captivates and beckons listeners deeper into the passionate world of Stoker.
Integral to the album’s exquisite mix and sonic perfection is Andrew Ryan, a maestro in his own right. A graduate from the Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences and having apprenticed under the indie rock demigod, Steve Albini, Ryan’s touch is evident in the album’s pre-production finesse. Their collaboration sparked from a fortuitous FaceTime call, one chilly January night in 2022, setting the stage for a sonic adventure that would eventually lead them to a house in Chicago in April.
But the journey didn’t stop there. Post-production saw the entrance of another prodigy, Brian Scheiffer from Firebrand Recording, an audio engineer maestro who added the final layers to this sonic masterpiece. To seal the deal, Ryan Wasoba, known for his association with the bands ‘So many dynamos’ and ‘Thor Axe’, stepped in for mastering.
While “Programmed to Exist” stands as a glowing emblem of Stoker’s ethereal sound, it’s also a profound narrative of collaboration, a harmonious dance between various artists who came together with a shared vision. This album is a symphony that’s been crafted in diverse settings, from the serene rusticity of Georgia’s farmhouses to the electrifying urban pulse of Chicago’s bustling streets.
Every note strikes a chord, not just musically, but emotionally — echoing the countless hours of brainstorming, the mutual encouragement during challenging times, and the sheer euphoria of creative breakthroughs. Each track is a story, a memory, a testament to the fervor, dedication, and tireless hard work of every individual involved. It’s a reminder that when artists come together with genuine respect for each other’s craft and a common goal, magic happens. “Programmed to Exist” is more than an album; it’s an ode to the art of collaboration.
For those eager to immerse themselves in this alternative wonder, “Programmed to Exist” is available on Spotify. You can also get a visual peek into Belsher’s world on Instagram.
But the crux of Stoker’s message? It’s more than just an album. It’s an invitation – to embrace fears, cherish moments, reflect on past experiences, and to understand oneself better. It’s about pushing boundaries, even when the odds stack up. So, as the vinyl spins and digital tracks play, remember: In a world where we’re often programmed to follow, sometimes it’s essential to be “Programmed to Exist”.
