I’m trying to stay calm and not break into a full-fledged rant and rave but…… oh, this Tyler James!
I never completely understood the term "old soul" before. Before Tyler James, that is. His indie 7 song EP arrived in my mailbox yesterday and now the air smells fresher, birds sing prettier, and my morning cereal is full of snap, crackle and pop. His self-titled EP is one of the year's best, to my mind. At 23, Tyler James is exploding with talent, insights, and a wisdom well beyond his years.
I knew I was in trouble at the opener, the throbbing rocker "Stay Humble." His smooth vocals grab your attention immediately, but it isn't but a minute before you're hooked as well by the pulsating power of the strings and James' moving lyrics. Second track, the lush "Don't Leave," is one of the most romantic songs I've heard in a long time. I don't know if it's the passionate lyrics or James' emotive delivery, but this song too pins you to your chair and dares you to move. "Moving to NY City" is livelier, and his plaintive vocals score again. James croons his way through the gentle yet full "For My Generation" and your heart is in your throat. The influence of Dylan shows up in the acoustic "Come Off Cold" but it is Dylan at his most vulnerable, absent the endearing nasal twang. "Dreams in Your Head" is a delicate ballad about chasing dreams. Closer "Everytime I Think" is more romance, this time a piano ballad, delivered once again dripping with passion.
First listen through, I thought each song would be my favorite.... until I heard the next. Throughout, James makes it look easy. But don't be deceived. This kind of talent comes from years of listening, learning, and a rich interior life. Now drop what you're doing and immediately get you some Tyler James, right here.
