Spotted // Electric Light by James Bay

~Written for an application and in appreciation of James Bay!~

In his new album Electric Light, James Bay literally electrifies his signature folk-pop sound. We should have guessed that when he chopped his long locks and ditched the hat his sound would diverge from the folksy acoustic guitar riffs and shock us with something edgier.

The album begins with a spoken narrative dialogue about a relationship, ending with faint music that crescendos as they walk ‘back inside’ a venue. It’s a disorienting element that introduces this album, albeit it immerses listeners in its intriguing narrative. Wasted On Each Other starts playing immediately after, with a strong guitar riff that drives it, demonstratively a rock genre, with angsty verses and experimental vocals in the pre-choruses. Next is Pink Lemonade, a classic dance-rock track which evokes retro vibes through its drum section with a repeated synth and electric guitar. It is followed with his first single for this album, Wild Love. It’s slow and mellow melodies are a stark contrast compared to the start of the album. Another single, Us, is a song that has musical strains reminiscent of his old sound, in which you hear Bay’s voice in full power, layered with new elements like electric guitar and synth that climax during the bridge. The In My Head verses are poetic and wordy.

A second dialogue track splits the record into two parts, with sounds of a car drifting and swerving. We are then re-introduced to Bay's signature guitar sound and a heavy bassline in Just For Tonight, and the same in Wanderlust. Next, the soulful track I Found You is mesmerising. Bay adds a hint of pizzicato strings in this ambitious track that just works with its powerful beat, electric warps, chorus singers and electric guitar, the last minute of the song is hypnotising as the myriad sounds meld together. Sugar Drunk High pumps through with heavy synth and rock beats. Stand Up in one word is ethereal. The introduction of strings and piano break through ever-present guitar and bass, and the song gently takes off with his lulling vocals. Fade Out is a track that tries some R&B groove and funk, and almost pulls it off. Finally, the album finishes with a slow and poignant piano ballad, Slide, in which listeners can truly appreciate Bay’s voice, which is refreshingly stripped back after a heavy album of songs.

There are so many different inklings of genres in one album, James Bay has proven to be a versatile and evolving artist. At times, it proves hard to grasp the lyrics because the music itself is too captivating. With an incredible blend of instruments and novel melodies, every track is distinct. The album is a wholesome package and invites listeners in for its distinct, narrative experience. Full of guitar riffs, soul and body, it is different.

These photos are from his concert in Brisbane 2016 while he was touring The Chaos and the Calm, his previous album. It's one of the best concerts I've ever been to.