Seasoned songwriter James Keen returns to his roots with the release of ‘Crossover’, an album that sees him stepping out as a true solo artist. Born from the solitude of lockdown, this project is a deeply personal and introspective offering, reflecting the journey of a musician with a wealth of experience and a fresh sense of creative freedom. Every note, lyric, and layer was crafted by Keen himself, making ‘Crossover’ a testament to his skill as a multi-faceted artist.
With ‘Crossover’, Keen embraces his musical heritage while expanding his horizons. The tracks are a masterclass in genre-blending, showcasing his ability to weave pop-rock, folk, and acoustic elements into a rich and cohesive tapestry of sound. Keen’s melodies are effortlessly captivating, his guitar solos soulful and expressive, and the overarching sense of emotional depth resonates throughout the record. This is the sound of an artist who, given the gift of time, has honed his craft to perfection.
‘Yes & No’ is a standout, demonstrating Keen’s ability to explore complex themes through simple yet evocative music. The track delves into the nuances of communication, showcasing some of Keen’s most insightful writing yet. Musically, Keen keeps things clean and minimal, letting the lyrics take centre stage, but adds a brilliant guitar solo to show his range. It’s a perfect blend of depth and accessibility, drawing the listener in with every note.
‘Minutes to Midnight’ is another track that highlights Keen’s extraordinary talent for building tension and drama within his music. The song has a sweeping, epic quality to it, with a driving intensity that makes it one of the more memorable tracks on the album. The guitar solo here is sure to impress, adding to the track’s emotional weight. Keen’s delivery is infused with purpose, and you can sense that he truly believes in every word and chord. This sense of conviction elevates the track, giving it an added layer of emotional resonance.
The album has already garnered attention, with two tracks nominated as finalists for the International Acoustic Music Awards, a nod to Keen’s ability to craft songs that speak to universal experiences. Each offering on ‘Crossover’ tells a story, with a narrative depth that draws the listener in, inviting them to escape into the world Keen has created.
‘Crossover’ is a celebration of artistry in its purest form. Keen seamlessly blends modern production with the timeless appeal of singer-songwriter traditions, creating a body of work that feels both fresh and familiar. From catchy hooks to reflective ballads, ‘Crossover’ is an album that will appeal to a wide and varied audience, while also marking a bold new chapter in James Keen’s already impressive career. As a solo project, ‘Crossover’ is a triumph, showcasing Keen’s versatility and commitment to his craft. It’s a record that feels deeply personal yet universally relatable, offering moments of introspection alongside the joy of pure musical expression. With this release, Keen firmly establishes himself as a force to be reckoned with, setting the stage for an exciting future as a solo artist.
