When last I wrote about James Keen, I said a little something like (okay, exactly like) this: “James Keen is a powerful, unique vocalist who saturates every word in simultaneous sadness and jubilance.” I also said, “…best male vocal performance of the year (well, technically, so far this year).” And guess what? Both statements remain true while listening to Keen’s latest single, “Falling or Flying” – another powerful excerpt from his new album, Crossover.
What makes “Falling or Flying” so gosh darn great?
Have I mentioned the vocals? Seriously, we’re talking incredibly emotive, passionately delivered vocals that simultaneously express aching indecision with anthemic certainty. It’s all feelings, all the time, and fueled with an obvious natural power. He can really, really sing, is what I’m saying – and the tone, the character, are utterly unique.
And the song? This is an ominous one – a culmination of darker chords played on acoustic guitar, piano, and subtle strings.
“Falling and Flying” features Keen’s voice fully upfront. Don’t get me wrong, the song is perfectly mixed, but Keen’s voice is so darn powerful, it IS the song – the instruments, although great, don’t stand a chance. But, that’s their ultimate purpose – to act as a subtle, consistent foundation upon which Keen’s voice effortlessly launches.
There are some clever changes in the chorus, and a nice bridge at about 2:58 – a quieter, more subdued entreaty – before we head to the final chorus, closing with a clean and tasteful guitar solo.
Usually, at this point, I ask…“But is it good?” We already know the answer, so we’ll go with…
Why isn’t James Keen on every single radio station??
Good grief, this is upsetting! Sure, he’s an internationally renowned talent, so the U.S. isn’t the final, or even necessary indicator of success. But….c’mon! This is the kind of pop/rock we crave – the kind we need! With questionably talented “artists” congesting airwaves and streaming, you have to wonder where new, popular music for adults lives.
Is there no more room for, say, a modern-day Sting? A Phil Collins? A Peter Gabriel (who just released an album to some fanfare, but not enough to suddenly garner notice from folks under 25)?? Why isn’t the industry embracing genuine, authentic artists?? They aren’t because we aren’t, so today, let’s take the first step towards effective change – let’s listen to, and support, James Keen.
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BELOW: Listen to James Keen and check him out on Soundcloud, Instagram, YouTube, Apple Music, Facebook, and Twitter (“X”). Please support James Keen by visiting him on his website, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing his music. And, as always, thank you for supporting real music.
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