By Lisa Jordan     •     Metro Spirit, Augusta, Ga.     •     Feb. 19, 2004

     Band hits it big on the national circuit, lead singer leaves band to pursue other things, lead singer ... finds new band through classified ad?

     It may not be the natural progression for most rock stars, but then again, Josh Todd isn’t most rock stars.

     “It wasn’t a planned thing,” the former Buckcherry frontman says of how he met up with his new bandmates. “I was at a newsstand, and you know, I was looking for really young guys. I wanted a fresh sound.”

     After arranging a jam session with the four musicians who would become Josh Todd — the band, not the man — Todd nearly backed out on the idea, until producer Chris Johnson talked him into attending.

     “I almost didn’t even go,” says Todd, who admitted he listened to the band through the door for a while before taking the plunge and joining them. “We just started jamming, and we really had great chemistry right off.”

     Todd also says that, given his prior musical experience, it was easy to see right away if the newly-formed band would work.

     “I think once you’ve been doing it for a while, yeah, if there’s a spark and there’s some things going on, getting to know them a little better as individuals. I had a meeting with them shortly after that and just kind of got into their heads,” he says. “They’re just really cool people. I think that’s what makes good music.”

     Josh Todd’s CD, “You Made Me,” is set to hit stores March 9 and highlights the band’s chemistry. On songs like “Circles” and the first single, “Shine,” the multiple components that make up the band complement, rather than compete.

     “It’s a collaborative effort,” Todd agrees. “I think that’s what makes it unique and gives it flavor.”

     Todd has also experienced a new role in the music industry, becoming involved on the business end of things with his Todd Entertainment group.

     “Well, you know, I’m kind of a perfectionist, so I really am hands-on,” he says. “I want to learn everything I can about the business. That’s where musicians can really get screwed. They come home and they’re broke. I’ve been through that, so through experience, I’ve learned, and I’m not going to do that anymore. I really educated myself of the business aspect of it.”

     Buckcherry fans should find lots to like in Josh Todd. Although there are some differences musically, Todd’s voice, songwriting and onstage energy remain familiar.

     “I have a pretty unique voice,” Todd says. “Fortunately, that’s a good thing. ... The difference is (the music is) heavier. It’s more modern-sounding. It’s more melodic. But it’s still my words. My strongest point is live performance. We have a great live show, and believe me, I’m carrying it over. That’s where I shine. I love the stage.”

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Former Buckcherry frontman Todd

doing his own thing