Copy that sparks change

Artist – James Bay

Album – Chaos and the Calm

Released – 15th December 2014

Chaos and the Calm is the debut album from James Bay: the twenty-four year old from Hertfordshire who, to put it lightly, has had an eventful start to the year so far. He was awarded the Brits Critics Choice Award and was ranked second in the BBC’s Sound of 2015, a considerable feat for someone who, up to January, had only released three EPs.

The record is somewhat of a blend. Bay’s sound infuses elements of Blues and Soul Americana injected with some very catchy popular song writing. The album was recorded in Nashville under the supervision of veteran, Grammy award winning producer Jacquire King. The forty eight year-olds extensive list of collaborations reads like a who’s who of modern Blues Rock, including the likes of Kings of Leon, Tom Waits and Modest Mouse. King hasn’t broken his track record with Chaos and the Calm.

The gentle, intricate guitar in tracks such as ‘Incomplete’ are a stark contrast to many of those heavier Blues riffs that can be heard. ‘Collide’ is an anthem filled with said riffs. Its vintage crunchy guitars and drum shuffle bring something of the Southern Gothic genre to the British public and compliments his powerful vocal performance throughout the record. Think Black Rebel Motorcycle Club fronted by James Morrison.

Bay also has an uncanny knack for writing enchanting and memorable melodies. The album is full of them. ‘Let It Go’ is a prime example. The unforgettable chorus vocal produces a powerful effect reaching out and connecting directly with the listener.

The album is very consistent and includes many impressive songs, however it can pass you by quite easily. It seems to lack variation as none is provided by the songwriting. Although some of the more delicate songs contrast to the heavier ones there is not much difference between the two. It seems the only distinction between these is the presence of a drum kit and backing vocals as opposed to a lone bass drum and singular vocal.

Despite the obvious lack of variation Chaos and the Calm performs its job and tells stories which have been exceptionally written. It contains some hard-hitting songs that contain real emotion. James Bay’s lyrical style is eloquent, soul-full and tender which is definitely the highlight of the record and the obvious reason for its success.

Give it a listen