Review

Jarryd James “P.M.” (Umusic)

In 2015 Australian singer-songwriter/producer Jarryd James' released his debut single "Do You Remember", which put the artist firmly on the map. To date, he has racked up more than 450 million streams and boasts ARIA Award wins and two Platinum singles in Australia - this is an artist whose stock is definitely on the rise globally.

"Miracles", the first single off "P.M.", is a classic sounding slice of neo-soul with typical chord sequence but James' creativity is already ablaze, as he drops a diamond melody. "I Do" continues the considerable vibe he is endorsing, stacked vocals, heavy polyrhythmic beats and again, an excellent topline - this guy will grab your ears! And he's not one to play it safe either, the sonic landscape is ghostly and experimental but glued together with a solid piano. With breathy vocals that suit the idiom perfectly and stark production which lets the quality of craftsmanship shine through in a free-flowing and uplifting manner (time spent in the jungles of Nicaragua have served him well!)

Jarryd handpicked a list of producers including Clams Casino (A$AP Rocky, Vince Staples), Malay Ho (Frank Ocean, John Legend, Alicia Keys) FrancisGotHeat (Drake, Travis Scott) and Joel Little (Khalid, Lorde) has paid off handsomely. It's a crisp, lively and pumped up production as exemplified by the scorcher "Don't Forget" the innovative drum programming is sensational and often overlooked in this genre - the arpeggiated piano makes the track even more memorable.

All recorded at night, it has that close intimate feel, where this Aussie nightbird can connect with his muse and sing his heart out - Jarryd James has produced an idiosyncratic platter full of mercurial magic. And if you haven't already, it's time to check out this gifted singer-songwriter.
Words Emrys Baird