May 15, 2023
James Ellis Ford. If his name doesn't ring a bell at first, like half of the Simian Mobile Disco project, where he is partnered by Jas Shaw, you might already be hooked.
Not only that, but James has also worked with artists such as Depeche Mode, Arctic Monkeys, Foals and Gorillaz during his 20-year career.
But it's only now that he's gotten around to releasing his debut album on his own, which can be taken literally as he took care of recording all the instruments on it.
The album holds together nicely as a whole and gives a really mature impression. That's why it was quite hard to pick just one track. But in the end I chose the second one in order, Pillow Village.
This one starts with a hypnotic guitar riff, which is quickly joined by a melody of lightly strummed saxophone. Once the drums come in, which add to the depth of the mood, the atmosphere doesn't let me go until the end.
The track strikes me as background music from an older film. You can feel that James paid attention to details during the recording process and enjoyed the creation, where he could fully develop his versatile talent.
Definitely listen to the whole album though.
on the iconic Warp Records label
MG
