British-born singer-songwriter and film composer James Harries returns with Love & Desire, just out this 17th of Oct, an album born from imperfection and instinct. After his young son’s happy accident with an old film camera, Harries found beauty in the flawed and spontaneous, scrapping his earlier polished sessions to record anew. What emerged is a raw, organic, and soul-stirring record made in just three days, with friends gathered in a room and tape rolling freely. This album is fully alive with human breath and wooden instruments in perfect sync, unburdened by studio gloss. And trust me, you will never get the idea, it just sounds that perfect and poetic.
The opener, “Sabotage,” starts warmly, with a steady piano melody, like sunrise through fog. Harries’ sharp, introspective voice pierces through with subtle urgency as he wonders, “Yeah if we make it through the night shift, will the daytime be a breeze?” Most of his lines are steeped in such reflection, profundity, and resilience. Then “Shivers Down My Spine” crackles with Van Morrison-esque soul, pulsing with joy and the ache of being alive. Its rhythmic drive and tender delivery make it an instant standout.
Later, “As The Night Comes Down” glows with intimacy. Over soft, giddy, jittery percussion and light strumming, Harries sings softly and sweetly, his voice carrying the hush of twilight and the euphoria found amongst someone seeing stars. “I don’t know the song you are singing, but I will try my best to haunt your tune,” he croons earnestly.
The title track, “Love & Desire,” ties it all together with a warm, piano-led meditation that builds gently, evoking the stillness of dusk. Harries’ voice stays low and tender as he reflects, “All we have built with our own hands now sits atop shifting sands.” By the chorus, he shows how love makes everything else alright, as he sings, “Love and desire burn like fire, and the darkness, the darkness fades to light.” It’s a timeless tune for any day.
Love & Desire is understated brilliance. It’s the sound of a master songwriter learning, once again, to let go. Stay tuned to James Harries on Spotify for more such tunes.
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Review by: Naomi Joan