Released: 8th July 2022
Published by: Republic Records
James Bay is one of the UK’s most popular acoustic singers; his latest album, Leap, delivers another collection of tracks that play to the singer’s strengths.
Bay came to prominence in 2014 with his upbeat, no-nonsense approach to acoustics. Chaos and the Calm was a lively, standout debut with plenty of memorable tracks, while 2018’s Electric Light was a moodier more experimental set that saw the artist move into new territory. The brighter hand-drawn aesthetic of Leap makes you think of the peaceful countryside at sunset; some elements have been drawn from Bay’s extended play: “Oh My Messy Mind” with the motivational track “Brilliant Still” continuing down an introspective path. The singer has also dialled back the raw vocals of his first album for a slower-paced feel at many points. “We Used To Shine” and “Endless Summer Nights” come the closest to the original album with a faster tempo and louder instruments. The arrangement of the tracks moves between these styles, concluding with “Better”, a solemn, reflective piece.
Across forty-three minutes of music, the third album feels more intimate and personal at many points, a reflection on the more emotional moments in life; “Everybody Needs Someone” and “One Life” are paired together for a pleasant tone. For the most part, the artist takes the lead on the acoustic guitar alongside backing instruments, though at other points a larger-scale performance will enter the scene like “Love Don’t Hate Me”. The tracks are deeply varied in pacing and composition, though in terms of tone and themes, Bay isn’t straying far from his original work; straightforward love songs are a continued fixture and he should look to branch out further. However, those who thought less of Electric Light will be pleased to see James move away from his off-kilter side and back towards the familiar.
Leap is a welcome return to form for James Bay, a focus on what he does best. Despite not taking his talents beyond what we’ve come to expect, it still succeeds with its charming, poignant and uplifting lyrics. Listeners looking for a strong balance between the delicate and the upbeat will be well satisfied.
Rating: B
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