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Introducing… Chris James!
"...a bewitching, cinematic offering, that fuses folk tapestries with electronics." - Clash
Singer-songwriter Chris James introduces us to his unique blend of stunning cinematic-folk on his new EP Space In The Clouds, out on 9th December 2016 via AWAL.
Chris' first single taken from the EP Stairs Up To The Sun premiered on Clash and you can also watch the video via his YouTube channel now.
You can also stream the audio for Stairs Up To The Sun on Chris' Soundcloud page.
The EP is about overcoming a difficult, dark period in his life and musically James combines influences from his days as lead singer songwriter of electro-rock pioneers Stateless with folk and modern electronica.
Space In The Clouds begins with Chris talking to his younger self through a time lapse with DM Stith (Sufjan Stevens) playing the counter voice. Throughout the EP, his compelling vocals take centre stage, complimented by the combination of intricate folk and synth sounds akin to the likes of Björk, with epic atmospheres reminiscent of Sigur Rós.
After living in east London for the past eight years, Chris met Lorna Rose (vocals) and pianist Nick Ramm (Cinematic Orchestra) on the London circuit. Through Lorna, Chris was introduced to the east London folk scene where he met bassist Arista Hawkes (Guillemots) and Ben Trigg (cello). While touring with DJ Shadow, Chris met up with producer Suneil Pusari (Michael Kiwanuka), and he was introduced to Barny Barnicott (Arctic Monkeys) through long-time collaborator Jim Abbiss (Adele), and the Space In The Clouds line-up was complete.
As part of Stateless, Chris has received praise from the likes of Uncut, MOJO, Clash and Q Magazine amongst others and their music has also been featured on an array of film and TV shows including Film 4, CSI, The Vampire Dairies and Suits. Chris has performed at various festivals including Secret Garden Party as well as performing on DJ Shadow's world tour. Now emerging as a solo artist, Chris is ready to introduce the world to his subtle electronic soundscapes that will take you, as the EP aptly puts it, to a space in the clouds.
Catch Chris live at his EP launch in November, details below:
Space In The Clouds is out on 9th December 2016 via AWAL.