The leading Gothic Artist in the Rose City of Portland, OR, James D. Stark's Dark Romantic music has seen 6 independently released CD's to date with thousands of sales to a diverse audience around the globe. Bringing Romantic back, Stark is at the forefront of the Romantigoth scene, yet transcends cultural barriers finding a diverse fan base of all ages and backgrounds.
His sound most readily described as Depeche Mode meets Phantom of the Opera, mixes synthesized sounds with an intimate and tender flair of the classical romantic. Heartfelt lyrics sung by his beautiful soaring voice will simultaneously sooth and haunt your soul. Take a listen and see if you can resist being enchanted by his eerily romantic music.
Stark has performed with many leading artists in the goth/industrial scene such as De/Vision, Assemblage 23, Voltaire, and The Birthday Massacre.
In 2008 Stark received the #1 spot on the MODEified 7 Depeche Mode tribute album with his version of "Higher Love", which is a free download at www.modeified.com.
There is nothing greater than to create something beautiful, and to share that with the world. Over the course of my life I have tried my best to make use of the talents I have, to find my place as an artist, ultimately making a place for myself. Part discovering who I am, and part creating who I envision myself to be. At the focus of my work, are the ideals I hold strongly to, and my romantic sentiments, which are strongly reflected in my songs. This is my life's work, wether in the end successful or not, I strive to be the best that I can in an effort to live up to my potential and to follow my dream. This is not merely a music project, nor a band, it is all that I am. A true expression of myself, as it is only in music that I feel truly alive and myself.
As the opening lyrics say from "Music of the Night", I invite you to come with me, into my fantasy, into my dream of song.
- James D. Stark