New York-based singer-songwriter, composer, and pianist Shayfer James adds elements of whimsy and vulnerability to his music and live performances. He has just released his new album, Summoning, a sonic exploration of self-awareness, human connection, and the tension between isolation and belonging.
“I decided to sequester myself away on the frozen oceanside of New Brunswick, Canada, because I knew I had a new album in me,” Shayfer says about the creative process behind the album.”I didn’t know what it would sound like or what it would be about, but I knew it was in there and that I wanted to be alone and somewhere beautifully cold when I wrote it. The four weeks I spent writing Summoning were lush with gorgeous sunrises, flocking crows, and self-acceptance. It felt like a spell. A summoning of self. I felt tapped into the ether, and there’s really no better word to describe my time on Cape Tormentine other than “magic.”“
Like the start of a summer blockbuster, Summoning opens with a huge track – “Imagine That” features stellar vocals balanced by moments of perfectly built suspense and a great payoff. This one song feels like an entire story playing out, with an intro, climax, denouement, emotional ending, and everything in between. Next, “One Foot In The Grave” gets right into it, with incredible hooks and catchiness, plus an undeniable groove.
While “The Moral” takes on a mellow approach and feels personal, almost like stumbling upon a diary entry, “Make A Wish” has a boppy feel and a sunshiney chorus. This is a defiant, self-aware song with a feel-good style. Looking to feel something? “Headed Home” is a beautiful song with a focus on piano, strings, and palpable emotion. Looking for an infectious song you’ll have stuck in your head for days? “Lighthouse Keeper” has an almost Irish shanty-song style, with bouncy piano riffs, and a catchy chorus that will have you singing along immediately. Try not to dance along to this one, I dare you.
A wistful feel and a touch of nostalgia are the core of “Yellow House,” followed by “Hell of a Dream” which is probably a personal favourite on the album. Incredibly infectious and compelling with its moody vocal style and addictive chorus. From there, “Reverie” brings a gorgeous gospel choir and organ to set the perfect mood. And then, for a satisfying finish to an incredible album, “Winter Hymn” is the final song; feeling like a confession, making admissions, and pondering the ending of a chapring.
Overall, Shayfer James’ new album is theatrical, alluring, and evokes an array of emotions. Summoning perfectly showcases the artist’s insane level of talent, with a stellar mix of styles and genres. This is an absolutely exceptional release from front to back,
Stream Summoning by Shayfer James on your preferred platform:
Spotify / Soundcloud / Apple Music
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