The super-talented singer, songwriter and pianist, REUBEN JAMES, who grabbed a Rising Star gong back in 2014 at the British Jazz Awards, has been on the radar of discerning jazz and soul aficionados for some time now but looks certain to break out into the mainstream after signing a worldwide deal with Warner/Chappell Music.
After successful sideman stints for UK pop artists Sam Smith (he co-wrote the title track on the singer’s ‘The Thrill Of It All’ album), Little Mix and Olly Murs, James now gives us a tantalising taste of what he can do via a superb 7-track digital EP called ‘Adore.’ The material is an allusive blend of jazz, soul and R&B flavours and ranges from sensual dreamy ballads (‘If You’re Not There,’ featuring US saxophonist Braxton Cook) to stomping neo-disco numbers (‘I Know You Too Well’) and mellow slow jams (‘What A Thing’). The latter features noted US drummer, Chris Dave, while his countryman, acclaimed trumpeter Keyon Harrold, guests on ‘Burn,’ a jaunty slice of hip-hop soul.
The EP precedes a concert at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall on November 17th. James also plans to release another EP in the early new year.
Reuben James’ ‘Adore’ is out now via the usual download and streaming platforms.
