gingerjamesfair, aka James Fair, has reached his latest pinnacle with his latest introspective album, The Hobbyist about life’s diverse pastimes and pursuits. He dedicates this album to his late father who was an earnest hobbyist, whom he lost including some other family members and his dog, during the period of his recording between September 2023 and January 2024.
Fair navigates through various tracks, each shedding light on different hobbies like fishing, and skydiving, and reflections on life. “Murmuration,” the opening track, sets the tone with its wistful layers of vocals and strumming guitars, evoking a harmonious murmuring of introspection and nostalgia.
In tracks like “Into The Loft,” Fair grieves former hobbies, lamenting, “I don’t want to go into the loft and see all the things from the hobbies I have stopped.” Meanwhile In the 12th track, Fair acknowledges, “Not everyone has hobbies.” He celebrates those who find fulfilment in simply living and loving the mundane.
The titular track, “The Hobbyist,” reflects on his father’s legacy, encapsulating the idea that true enthusiasts create everything with love. In the last free track, “We Can Save Up For A Telescope Sometime,” Fair urges you to enjoy gazing at the stars with binoculars for now even if you can’t afford a telescope, with tender guitar plucks.
As a bedroom musician with a penchant for storytelling, Fair may even give you a new idea for a hobby with his latest album, The Hobbyist. There are 6 extra tracks, that will only be available upon purchase. So find out if you want to listen to more hobbies!
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Photo Credit: Ian Jones
Review By: Naomi Joan