Reviewed by Ian Phillips.
By James Morrison, Stanley Park Records/ADA 2019.
This is the new album from English soul singer/songwriter James Morrison, not the Aussie jazz legend of the same name.
It’s his fifth album, two of which (Undiscovered and Songs For You, Truths For Me), achieved #1 status in the UK.
James’ star has certainly been on a steady rise since the release of his debut album, Undiscovered, in 2006.
In addition to the abovementioned album successes he’s achieved five top 10 singles, a Brit Award, a Platinum album in Australia for Undiscovered (seven million sales) and in so doing he’s become one of the hottest artists of his generation.
James’ musical style harks back to the Stax and Motown eras.
It’s predominantly soul and he has the right feel and voice to pull it off.
Morrison’s song writing is honest and direct and he delivers the songs with power, tenderness, and a feeling that experience has been a good teacher.
Apparently the songs have developed out of a turbulent time in his life.
There are some self-revelatory lyrics with darker moments but overall the album has a positive vibe.
According to the publicity material that came with the disc, for the first time ever, Morrison made the album with only one producer, Mark Taylor. This decision has infused the album with a sense of unity and cohesion.
In addition to this, he recorded it at British Grove Studios in London using a mix of vintage analogue equipment and modern technology.
The bulk of the album was recorded within a week and a second week was spent adding the finishing touches.
By today’s standards this is remarkably quick.
I believe that these decisions have greatly assisted in providing the spontaneity that the album exudes.
This is the first full album of James Morrison’s work that I’ve listened to and I can see why he’s attracted such interest from the music press.
If you’re into a bit of vintage soul then this is the album for you.
