James Humphrys - Memory Palace

Bristol-based songwriter and instrumentalist is back with his second EP 'Memory Palace'.

Photos from Sonic PR

Consisting of four tracks written and created off the coast of Alaska, while working on a cruise ship, the EP includes recent singles 'Colour' and 'All The Same'; all of which pays evidence of Jame's capacity to create indie anthems fulfilled with energy.

Taking influences from the likes of Foals and Bombay Bicycle Club, Jame's explores a positive outlook on life and the struggles of modern life through funky rhythms to jazz, trumpet solos and insightful lyrics.

The project opens up, with 'All the Same', a track we were lucky to hear beforehand and an eye-opener to the summer soundtrack. It provides listeners with a reminder that it's okay to feel good about things and to believe in something. Followed by the emphatic 'Better Now'; a jazzy offset through upbeat sounds and texture, allowing listeners to take a journey of tales. All of which the artist has curated and created a joyful EP.

Speaking about the song, James explained: "It's a song about the importance of friendship and the fact that although you often feel that things are out of control, even people who seem like they've got it together have the same sort of days when they're just trying to keep their heads above water."

Listeners are then delved into the heart of the EP through the acclaimed single 'Colour'. An ecstatic summer hit, through rapturous jazzy beats and slinky guitar strings. The song brings thoughts which surround the bitter feeling you get when you see a false persona in group situations.

Finally, the EP closes with 'Lost in You', a softer take of the project but, continues to keep his artistic sound throughout. The vocals are the forefront of the song, allowing listeners to see a different side of James; written with his girlfriend Bethany the song details the beginning of a relationship and the feeling of being lost in a partner.

The EP is packed with summer joy and gives listeners an infectious and uplifting offering loaded with emotions. You would be stupid to ignore what James's talent is and what he's going to bring to the table in the future.