One of the most interesting aspects of Patrick James’ new EP is not the songs themselves, but what they say about James’ influences and the future direction of his music.
Don’t get me wrong – it’s a strong set of a half-dozen songs that evoke both Boy & Bear (with whom he has been touring) and Jackson Browne, with thoughtful lyrics that would be right at home in a Cameron Crowe film. This EP might well be the soundtrack to your summer road trip.
But there is something uneven here. Despite moments of greatness – tracks like the recent single ‘Message’ and the gorgeous duet ‘Fight With Me’ – other songs never quite find their wings. ‘Something In The Way’ and ‘Wait’, for instance, are both lovely songs but don’t really contribute to the overall variety – perhaps their inclusion should have been held back for an album. It’s odd, given that ‘Wait’ in particular is quite compelling live, but here seems unexplored.
Still, Broken Lines is certainly worth your attention, and is an intriguing indication of how James’ songwriting will develop as he moves toward his next release. Make sure you check him out live.
3.5/5.
Broken Linesis out Friday July 18 through Create/Control.
