London-based singer/songwriter Melissa James kicks off her recording career with a solidly soulful debut album that has been the result of three-years of hard graft.
During that time the singer – whose voice is a finely-nuanced expressive instrument with an inherent, underlying soulfulness – has accrued a devoted fan-base thanks to her captivating live performances in and around the capital.
Singer/songwriter Melissa James has a soulful, jazzy, sometimes Pentecostal vibe, married with a rich, mature voice.
Remember the name Melissa James. The British neo-soul singer is creating a huge underground buzz with her enthralling live performances and forthcoming debut album Day Dawns.
Here, the 36- year-old talk about her blooming career and wanting to contribute to the black British soul experience.
Singer-songwriter Melissa James will be releasing her debut album later this month.
Day Dawns was three years in the making, and the craft and love put into its tracks is immediately apparent, with each one a heartfelt melange of jazz, soul, blues and folk (although often not at the same time…) crowned by James’ gorgeous, velvety voice.
Not quite convinced? Then have a listen to ‘I Need You Here’, a paean to a lost relationship, via James’ website right here.
Day Dawns is out via Slickersounds on June 25, and James will also be playing a special show to launch the album at London’s Green Note on June 21 – tickets are currently on sale.
Amy Bell – The Girls Are, June 2012
Southern World Arts News (SWAN) Editor and Artist, Alecia McKenzie caught up with me at the weekend to find out about my journey in making Day Dawns and has written a lovely piece which is published yesterday on the SWAN site.
Melissa James’ debut album Day Dawns moves through a diverse range of styles, including jazz, blues, torch singing and country. Helen G finds an understated gem from a singer with a voice able to carry all this off with assurance and maturity.
Singer and songwriter Melissa James released her debut album ‘Day Dawns’ this week. We caught up with her to ask about influences, aspirations and the release.
