LAUREN RUTH WARD is an uncompromising creative force. Along with co-writer/bandmate Eduardo Rivera, they are fearless in their writing and performances. We caught up with them as they are preparing for a tour in support of Melanie Martinez, October 15th – November 22nd. This will be immediately followed by their first headline European tour November 27th – December 15th. Keep an eye out for them when they are in your area. On this episode, Lauren Ruth Ward performs three songs live from the Joy Sounds studio – “Pullstring,” “Vahalla,” and “We Are Grown Ups.” Follow Lauren @laurenruthward

Joel Rafael is a Southern California folk legend whose newest record, Rose Avenue, is a heartfelt collection of songs that are current and insightful. Joel weaves stories of how he and Jason Mraz collaborated to bring attention to the critical issues at Standing Rock, North Dakota. And, Joel is one of the fortunate few to have co-written songs with Woody Guthrie through receiving lyrics directly from the Guthrie estate. Joel performs three songs off of Rose Avenue live from the Joy Sounds studio – “Glory Bound,” “Secrets of the Heart,” and “Never Needing.” Be sure to check out Rose Avenue and follow Joel @joelrafaelofficial

JEJ Vinson made a huge splash on The Voice last season by getting the coveted “4 chair turn.” He went on to have a strong showing as part of “Team Kelly” that earned him an international fan base. Now, after The Voice, JEJ is ready to make his mark as an artist on his own. On this episode, JEJ talks about the remarkable support of his family as well as his experience on The Voice. He performs three songs live from the Joy Sounds studio – “Tasty,” “It’s Alright” and his newest single, “Superstar” which you can see the video on YouTube or stream on all platforms. Follow JEJ - @jejvinson

Slenderbodies creates floating, atmospheric soundscapes that are at once rooted in nature and other worldly. Comprised of Max Vehuni and Benji Cormack, the duo is poised for their next step forward with the release of their new record, komorebi, on September 20th. On this episode of Joy Sounds, Max and Benji describe how they channeled a powerful experience in the redwoods of Northern California into the creation of komorebi. Slenderbodies also performs three songs off the new record live from the Joy Sounds studio including “arrival,” “senses,” and “nothing.” You can catch slenderbodies live near you as they kick off their North American tour on September 27th. Follow the band @slenderbodies and http://slenderbodi.es/

Hip hop artist, STORMAKASTORM, has a very bright future. Storm is an artist with something to say, a commanding live show, and is ready to build a dynamic independent career for himself and the people in his circle. His new album, “I Wish Everything Was Different” tells a story of confronting challenges, as well as showing gratitude to family and friends. Storm and his band perform three songs from the album live in the Joy Sounds studio: “Black Jesus,” “Mistreated,” and “Tell.” The clarity of purpose and spirit of generosity that Storm and his band mates, Styxx and Blaze, talk about during the interview is refreshing, genuine and inspiring. Follow Stormakastorm - @stormakastorm

ROSCOE & ETTA are an Americana duo comprised of songwriters, Maia Sharp and Anna Schulze. On this episode, they discuss how their first writing session together produced the song “Play On” which served as the catalyst for their sound. Roscoe & Etta have a new EP – Blessings, Curses, Anchors and Wings – that will be released October 18th. You can also catch them live at the Hotel Café in Los Angeles on October 17th. Roscoe & Etta perform three songs from the Joy Sounds studio during the show including “Play On” and the first two singles from their new EP, “Burn” and “Get Lost.” Follow Roscoe & Etta - @roscoeandetta

THE BEST OF JOY SOUNDS LIVE SESSIONS – VOLUME I features performance highlights from the amazing emerging artists who were guests on the first 12 episodes. This Best of Joy Sounds episode includes performances by RKCB, Rozzi, Skylar Funk, Honey County, Fabriq, Okudaxij, Loren Cole, Lou Roy, Haleigh Bowers and The Nova Darlings. Learn more about all of these artists by listening to their episodes on Joy Sounds! Follow Joy Sounds @joysoundsmusic

SKYLAR FUNK and his band, Trapdoor Social, have an impressive and deep commitment to the environment. In this episode, you’ll hear how Skylar has put together shows and festivals that are completely run on solar power. Skylar also shares the moving story behind a very special instrument – a harp – that he plays during the show. Although we catch Skylar in a more intimate singer/songwriter mode on today’s episode, he puts on an amazingly high energy and rock star worthy performance as part of Trapdoor Social - who you can see live on Saturday, August 24th as part of the Hermosa Beach Summer Series. Skylar performs three songs live from the Joy Sounds studio during today's show: “Call You Up,” “Enough,” and “Sick On Your Love.” Keep up with Skylar @skylar.funk and Trapdoor Social @trapdoorsocial.

Film composer, JACQUES BRAUTBAR, brings a rock band background together with a love of Wagner to create a signature sonic palette. Jacques' mission is “to write unique music that adds a fourth dimension to the narrative experience by supporting story, enhancing visuals and communicating the unspoken.” In this episode of Joy Sounds, Jacques demonstrates the range of his skill through majestic video game cues, melodies that can make you cry, and soundscapes that are absolutely terrifying from his work in the horror genre. Put on the headphones and brace yourself. Follow Jacques at @therealjacquesb and you can hear his work in the documentary, "Kings of Beer" currently available on all digital platforms.

OKUDAXIJ has their own rules. On this episode of Joy Sounds, you’ll hear Eric Radloff, along with producer, Scott Heiner, throw out the “Music Marketing 101” playbook - starting with the band name that resembles what happens when a cat walks across a computer keyboard. Okudaxij’s music and recording process is no less unique. They have a way of writing and recording that truly captures an emotional spark in the moment – which is why their records are done at breakneck speed. Okudaxij performs three songs live from the Joy Sounds studio – “Folk Rock Song 1,” “Rock Bottom,” and “Looking Back.” Follow them @okudaxij