James Harries – “Love & Desire”

James Harries is back with a new album, Love & Desire, and I’ve been spending time with it. It’s one of those records that quietly pulls you in and doesn’t let go. He actually scrapped a more polished version he had been working on after being inspired by some old, overexposed photos his son had taken. That sparked a change in direction, and he ended up recording this version of the album over three days with friends. No click tracks, no endless takes, just hitting record and letting the songs take shape naturally. You can really tell. There’s something very alive about the way it all comes together.

“Shivers Down My Spine” really stood out to me with a soulful energy that reminded me of early Van Morrison. “I Want Out” had that gritty indie-folk vibe, something you’d expect to hear at a late-night show in a small venue. And “Paris” had this kind of charm and it’s my favorite track of the release. It’s not trying too hard, it’s just doing its thing, and that’s part of what makes it easy to connect with.

If you haven’t heard his older stuff, definitely go back and explore more of his catalog. And be sure to follow James Harries on social media so you don’t miss what he’s doing next.