[rating=8.00]
Jim James has become a kind of thought leader in modern music, putting his feelings about politics, the world and humankind right out in the open and continuously pushing the boundaries of his sound. His last record, Regions of Light and Sound of God, showed a strong lean toward a dreamy groove so well suited to his mystical, otherworldly singing voice. His latest release, Eternally Even, builds on that even more, delving deeper into that retro, soulful sound and even deeper into politics and the current state of our country and our world. His record could not have arrived at a more poignant time, with a stranger-than-fiction election looming. Now more than ever, we probably need some of James’ signature magic.
James doesn’t mince words on Eternally Even, and his message is clear. If we can all come together, open our eyes, be just a little more aware, we can make the world a better place. Still, James doesn’t hide his cynicism and distrust of the system. “Same Old Lie” confronts change head-on, ironically playing with an almost hypnotic, trance-like tempo alongside lyrics about questioning the status quo. The song’s psychedelic vibes suck you into a vortex of skepticism, as James sings, “Nothin’ is more difficult than changin’ what is comfortable”. Ain’t that the truth? He reminds us why it’s crucial to go against the grain.
He gets groovier on “Here in Spirit”, an empowering protest song that stands out as the record’s beating heart. “If you don’t speak out/We can’t hear it,” he sings. The importance of having a voice is front and center. “Those who came before/Are here in spirit,” he continues, in a harmony that warps and flows simultaneously like a twisted fever dream. James shines his light all over Eternally Even, but this tune is one of the brightest.
Another shimmering moment is the sensual groove of “The World’s Smiling Now”. Slinky electric guitar mixed with satiny synth and sparkling keys make for an atmospheric swoon of a song perfect for hip shaking. A warm, layered horn section adds dimension and heat to the purring “In the Moment”, and an unexpected mod essence takes over on “True Nature” before evaporating into a spacey, electro sound and then returning to form, weird and wonderful.
James doesn’t compromise the sound or aesthetic of one bit, creating the creamiest melodies to complement his visions for a more progressive future. The two-parter “We Ain’t Getting Any Younger” is a doozy of a jam that grows and blooms like a living organism. His lyrics are, again, about being a catalyst for change and pushing ourselves forward instead of backward, using his own artistic platform to convey the significance of even having a platform to begin with.
One Response
this is such a fantastic album from start to finish. in my top 3 best of 2016.