Los Angeles, CA’s Gothard mixes darkness and warmth in his engaging, smart acoustic songwriting. Songs like “If Thomas Jefferson Were Here” from the album Poppy Fields and Pearls demonstrate the kind of unafraid commentary on human life Gothard is willing to explore. Emotional forthrightness, a glimmer of darkness mingled with a sparkle of light, all rounded out with strong melodies and a certain stark directness all elevate Gothard’s music above the norm. In the tune “If Thomas Jefferson Were Here,” this songwriter turns his attention to social commentary, though he’s just as comfortable exploring personal emotions. With his straight-shooting approach he asks if the America in which we live today is the one Jefferson envisioned. His answer isn’t positive. The theme of the song is set off by the subtly dark tone of the music and highlighted by the organic melodies of his vibrant, folksy songcraft. And Gothard looks inward with as much cutting examination throughout the course of the album. His focus shifts from broad, social scale to introspective considerations with the ease of a songwriter at home with his work. “All the songs on the album are different or varying expressions,” according to Gothard. “Some are solemn, some are witty and clever, some are driven.” He goes on to say that “Thomas Jefferson” contains the “strongest Expression” of the album, further explaining its status as an album single. It also contains the signature juxtapositions of Gothard’s songwriting. It’s serious yet comedic, gloomy yet light. In this case, the duality of Gothard’s songwriting emerges with the style dichotomies of satire, contained in the package of a song. He has announced that he is at work on a new album. In addition, Gothard is currently working with A&R Select, the world’s leading independent artist development firm, based out of Los Angeles, CA. More information is available by visiting www.markgothard.com, www.myspace.com/markgothard and www.arselect.com.