EPK
BIO
Hailing from Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Jake Ballard is an established DIY force in the East Coast music scene. Known for a distinctive blend of fun upbeat roots-rock and gritty blues-rock, Ballard’s sound is steeped in the spirit of old-fashion rock'n'roll — carrying on a tradition while forging a voice that’s unmistakably his own. His songs flow between a raw, expressive energy and warm, dynamic soundscapes — anchored by his often fingerpicked, fiery guitar style and his soulful, honest vocals.
Together, with his band The Bad Ticket he's released three full-length albums (Madness - 2022, Songs From the Wishing Well - 2023, Silver Bloom - 2024) and performed hundreds of shows, earning a reputation their magnetic live shows and undeniable chemistry. Whether in an intimate solo set or a full-band blowout, Ballard brings maritime charm, technical skill, and emotional depth to every stage.
His music draws from a wide range of influences — melding the grit and edginess of 60's blues-rock with the texture and atmosphere of modern psychedelic and alternative roots-rock. From laid-back, catchy grooves to soaring electric jams, Jake Ballard delivers music that’s powerful and personal, rooted deeply in the timeless sound at the heart of East Coast rock ’n’ roll.
Pull Me Through (LIVE)
Pull Me Through off of Ballard's recent album Silver Bloom, perfromed live and filmed at The Sanctuary Arts Centre by Nicole Holland in 2025
SILVER BLOOM
Ballard’s 2024 album SILVER BLOOM stepped away from his blusier sound and into a new uncharted sonic landscape. Based around a liminal aesthetic and cerebral subject matter, all 10 tracks are soaked in reverb, containing tight improvisation, mysterious guitar tones and emotional heavy hitting lyrics. Co-Produced by fellow Halifax artist, the prolific and talented Laura Merrimen, the two collaborated with Jake’s long time band (Ben Matthews - Bass, Adam Coveyduc - Drums) and engineer Franc Lopes at Ocean Floor Recording in Halifax to create a unique and moving piece of art that’s bound to stand the test of time.