James Walsh, frontman of Starsailor, is an established singer, songwriter and guitarist in his own right. Having released solo material since 2012, the combined sales of his solo work and releases with Starsailor mean that Walsh has sold over three million records globally. On January 30th he releases his newest album ‘It’s All Happening’
The album is similar in sound to previous solo releases, it’s familiar but doesn’t feel boring. Opening with At The End Of Everything which is calm and easy listening. The vocals feel like a quiet reassurance, while the lyrics strike you right in the weak point of those emotional walls you’ve put up. There is a beat that appears toward the end that to me feels slightly out of place – almost dance-like compared to the rest of the track, momentarily pulling you out of the calm space and back to reality. However, whilst slightly off-putting in the moment, it isn’t so distracting that it hampers the listening experience.
Moving target, the second song on the album, features a beat that fits perfectly with the overall sound of this track. The song has a relaxed feel with soft guitar which continues into track three Shadows. Full of emotion, Walsh’s vocals are strong and you can really feel what he’s singing. It’s a song you can connect with on a deeper level, which I enjoy. Track four called Lovin you has some raw and honest lyrics combined with beautifully layered vocals.
The Great Northwest feels a little out of place for me. It seems to rapidly change from soft to slightly louder, rather than maintaining the continuous calm tone and volume of previous tracks. Despite this, the vocals in this track are really nice to listen to, and I still bopped my head throughout. Coney Island has a pleasing beat; it’s subtle but still noticeable, again Walsh’s vocals blend perfectly with the instrumental, and after a listen or two, I caught myself humming this track whilst trying to get through the boring, everyday tasks around the house.
After this is Broken Days, which opens with an almost whimsical feel, and a lovely tone to the vocals that continues into the following track, Rachel. This song is a masterclass in emotional lyricism – not so over the top that it’s hard to connect with, but not underwhelming either. It took me a couple of listens to really appreciate, but now it’s one of my favourites. Tea and Sympathy maintains this vocal warmth and delivers lyrics you’ll remember for days.
The album closes with Pooles Cannon and Firefly moments. These two tracks follow the Calm and relaxed feeling set up earlier on. Pooles Cannon is lyrically beautiful – to the point I almost shed a tear, whilst Firefly Moments ends the album perfectly, continuing the relaxed feeling whilst delivering home – hammering lyrics and an instrumental you can really appreciate.
Overall It’s All Happening feels like a comforting, warm hug on a rainy day. The sort of album you put on to unwind after the stresses of work and family chaos. Familiar but far from boring, it’s like an old friend or a cup of tea. Relaxed but not lazy and a real treat for your ears. With its calm and cosy vibe, and emotional lyrical depth, this album is the perfect soundtrack for dark, cold evenings.
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