Warren, James: Innocent Bystander

Former founding member of Stackridge and The Korgis, James Warren is back shortly after performing in Stackridge's last concert with the release of his third solo album titled Innocent Bystander.

For those familiar with the Englishman you know is ability to write a good pop song is his strong suit and with Innocent Bystander that's exactly what you get. Nine solid pop rock tracks that are as catchy as any you will likely here this year.

On the album Warren sought the help of Glenn Tommey who helped him write six of the tracks. On every song Warren supplies the backing track so one can assume he played many of the instruments himself although he does have help from a number of musicians.

"The First Time" begins the disc with simple acoustic rhythms and piano as well as a gorgeous vocal arrangement. The backing vocals of John Baker and Bea Warren are simply lovely and add to the song's catchiness. Warren's pop sensibilities mixed with a hint of blue eyed soul is very infectious. "Set Me Free" is another catchy number with strings adding a soft lushness to the sound. Tim Petherick's slide guitar also deserves to be mentioned as it is really quite nice. The lead and backing vocals on the tender ballad "You've Got The Love That Matters" are a real treat. Although a little tender and sappy, I'm a sucker for a good ballad and this one does the trick.

Two of my favourite tracks are the Beatles' influenced "High Time" and "Have You Seen The Colours?". The catchiness abounds on both tracks especially the keyboards in the former and the vocal arrangement in the latter.

Pure pop music mixed with a little Motown soul is what Innocent Bystander brings to the table. It's a slick production with good musicianship and great vocals. I think this one's a winner.

Released on Angel Air Records.

Track Listing:
1. The First Time
2. Set Me Free
3. That's What You Do To Me
4. You've Got The Love That Matters
5. High Time
6. Everybody Needs Somebody To Love
7. That's How I'm Loving You
8. Have You Seen The Colours?
9. I Just Want You To Tell Me

Added: March 25th 2018
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Label's Official Site
Hits: 1124
Language: english

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