Band Bio

VanMarter Project: expressive music written from the heart and soul by Chris Chilton, A.J. Webster, Josh Popham, and Jason Stephens. In a collaboration of talent where art reflects life, these members stay morally grounded to themselves and their music. Their harmonious blending of personality and passion convey intense emotional beliefs regarding current moral and ethical issues via an appealing modern rock sound.

On tour from the Pacific Northwest with songs from their debut album Don't Look Back, including their Top 40 single "Guaranteed Tomorrow". Their music was featured on the globally distributed Discovery HD TV series "Catchin' Air".

VanMarter Project is an Artist Advocate for The Music Matters Project through Empty Vessel Music, a for-impact Grammy organization that emphasizes music appreciation, education and intervention for at-risk youth.

• Chris Chilton

  Lead vocals, guitarist and songwriter, Chris is the poetic voice of VanMarter Project. His contagious smile and soft-spoken demeanor conceal the intensity expressed in his songs. Continually seeking to excel in every endeavor, Chris possesses the desire and passion to not only improve his own life but to also touch others through his words in hopes of enlightening theirs.

  Overcoming various obstacles along the road, music remained the common factor while Chris pursued other creative outlets such as drawing comic books and filmmaking. With an endearing modesty and insecurity about public singing, Chris ignored his inner voice until the opportunity arose during a youth retreat to sing in front of others and develop his talent with the guitar. Chris began writing songs and found a local band interested in his work. Here he met A.J., and their genuine friendship overcame changes within the band to remain true to themselves and their music.

  Chris finished his education in film and focused more attention on his band. Playing local venues and benefit shows, he was serendipitously introduced to Hydrus Media, who showcased the music of VanMarter Project in the Discovery HD series, “Catchin' Air”. Now, Chris and the rest of VanMarter Project “Don't Look Back” as their music and message reach fans internationally.

  

• A.J. Webster

  As the lead guitarist and songwriter,  A.J. adds his compassion to the melody of VanMarter Project. His mysterious eyes reflect the depth he expresses through his guitar.  Harmonizing his past experiences with his present, A.J.'s music blends his hidden emotional side with his technical and structured demeanor.

  Beginning with a yard-sale guitar given to him at the age of 15, A.J. found that he could speak his heart through his hands and express emotions otherwise difficult to convey. Surrounded by a musically inclined family, A.J. began playing in a neighborhood jamboree with his uncle, grandfather and numerous other musicians as they performed old gospel songs every Monday evening. Passing on her love for music, his grandmother inspired A.J. to compose from the heart and understand the power music has on the listener during various moments in life.

  After a rough period of self-discovery, A.J. entered a church where he met Jeromy, who helped get his life back on track by sharing musical ideas and the gospel.  Fatherhood is A.J.'s most important accomplishment and with the support of his family and friends, the music of VanMarter Project will continue to reflect his life's journey.

   

  

• Josh Popham

  As bass guitarist and backup vocals, Josh is the energetic rhythm of VanMarter Project. His enthusiasm, optimism, and comedic antics lighten the spirits of the band and reinforce the bond between them. Engaging others with his witty comebacks and quotes, Josh is a free spirit who seeks center attention and will try anything.

  Growing up in a large family and frequently moving due to his father's work, Josh developed a love for travel. Encouraged by his mother's advice to see the world, he participated in many mission trips where he discovered a love for music and was motivated to write his own songs. Having learned to play the bass guitar in ninth grade, Josh began playing with his church family under the influence of his mentor, Buck Storm. Eventually, he joined VanMarter Project for a brief time before departing to pursue flight school training.

  Music continued to influence Josh and he began working at The House of Blues in Anaheim, CA. Surrounded by such an environment, meeting other artists and learning more about music, Josh eventually returned home and received a fateful call from A.J. to rejoin the band. Josh's impelling bass rhythm and energy sustain the intensity of VanMarter Project's music while his humor continues to entertain us all.

  

• Jason Stephens

  As drummer, Jason completes VanMarter Project by keeping time and focus. His previous experience recording and performing in various bands contributes to the development of VanMarter Project. Jason's professionalism accessorizes his stylized confidence and his compassion accentuates his music.

  Making his first appearance into the world the same day as the Mt. St. Helens eruption, Jason's childhood was filled with as much vigor and explosive energy as one could imagine. Resulting at times in broken paper drum sets at the age of six. Listening to favorite bands on CD, Jason would cushion the player with blankets and pillows so that his drumming along to the music would not cause the CD to skip. Practicing in this fashion for years with occasional lessons, Jason moved to Seattle, WA and enjoyed the diversity of arts, played with local bands, and studied animation and graphic design.

  Jason completed his education and pursued other artistic avenues, although the absence of his drums was soul crushing. Upon joining VanMarter Project, Jason and his newfound family have achieved new heights, stronger together than apart. Each member contributes to VanMarter Project, combining their individual experiences, struggles, and passions, in the same manner that each instrument and sound, although engaging alone, combines to create their songs.