Track of the Week is here!
BIMM Bristol Alumnus, James Humphrys released his latest single earlier this month – and it’s the perfect listen for these summer mornings. Take a listen and discover more about how the track came about.
What was your inspiration when you began writing the track?
The song began in Alaska whilst I was away working as a musician on a cruise ship for four months. Lyrically, the track was inspired by American professor and podcaster Brené Brown and her documentary Daring Greatly.
One of the things she says is “We are so afraid that if we feel joy, something will take it away from us. Whilst great things are happening to us, often we dress-rehearse tragedy. So sinking into joy is just allowing ourselves to enjoy things as they are.’”And that’s what this song is about. It’s okay to feel good about things, believe in something when it feels right and not to always look for reasons why it might be wrong.
Are there any artists that inspire you when writing?
I take inspiration from a wide range of songs and artists I’m into at the time I guess. Although one band I’m heavily inspired by is the Australian disco-pop band Parcels. Not only in terms of writing and production but also their live set. I saw them live for the first time at Dot to Dot in Bristol and they are unbelievably tight. They have just released a live album and session of their discography back-to-back and you should definitely check it out!
What is key to your sound and how do you make your music stand out?
I think the key to my sound is lots of carefully placed layers. I try to make pop music with a subtle little something for music nerds!
How does your songwriting process work?
I tend to start ideas on guitar but I also use the recording process as a sort of writing tool and build up layers and ideas as they flow in the project. I love getting lost in the recording process and it can become slightly obsessive once I’m in the zone.
Describe your sound in 3 words…
Tropical Dream Sandwich.
How has studying at BIMM helped you develop as an artist?
Studying at BIMM has definitely helped my development as an artist. It has helped my confidence grow and I also wouldn’t have met my band and best friends if I hadn’t gone to BIMM. It also allows you time to develop and is an opportunity to try things out to discover your sound and the sort of music you want to make. What you put in, you’ll get out!
What’s next for you?
I’ve just announced my new four-track EP Memory Palace, which will be released on July 10th. You can pre-save it here if you fancy. Then, hopefully, there will be a belated release show coming soon once we’ve got the all-clear.
