Jarryd James’ New Soulful EP ‘High’
Jarryd James recently dropped his brand new EP titled ‘High’, including six new tracks which has reached the top 40 in the ARIA charts. James had the chance to work with some of the best producers in Los Angeles that have also written for the likes of Lorde, Miguel and Alicia Keys. The EP opens up with his single ‘1000X’, featuring BROODS. The track is a slow, soulful song showcasing James’ soft and rich vocals. The addition of BROODS’ Georgia Notts, creates a peaceful, romantic-like tone and a beautiful melody that relaxes you through the story.
‘How Do We Make It’ follows with the same storytelling feel that just makes you want to sit back, close your eyes and dream. The slow percussion sounds and the use of the piano throughout the entire track produces a raw melody showcasing James' talented vocals. His use of falsetto tones encapsulate the emotion and energy in losing someone in a relationship.
‘Claim My Love’ is the most pop sounding song on the EP, but it doesn’t stray away from James’ unique alternative and soulful sound. It’s a chilled song, with the use of piano notes that create that gospel and soul sound we are used to hearing in the genre.
Continuing on to ‘Burning Out’, the meaning seems to express a love that is falling. James’ sinister and sad lyrics continue to create a message through his songs. The use of a faster tempo, and a faster percussion sound, including stringed instruments and piano, captures the story James is expressing. His use of falsetto vocals continue to make his music stand out, creating a rich and smooth tone.
‘Can’t Help It’ is a nice track towards the end of the EP. The rhythm of hand claps and percussion instruments in the verses are infectious, making you want to tap along. The continuation of a soulful, and smooth melody in the chorus creates more attention to the lyrics in the chorus, “Cross my heart and hope to try// I know tears will fall// You can’t help it.”
James concludes his EP with the title song. The build-up of the verse to the chorus through the use of percussion encapsulates his emotions on the love that was once ‘high’. The use of violin sounds, also creates a tension build up throughout the song. I can’t get enough of James’ falsetto tone. It is so calming and oh so peaceful. Love it
It is great to hear such a raw and emotive EP. James has made his stance in the industry with an impressive EP showing he doesn’t need a big production to make a great sounding track.
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