Album Review – James – Be Opened By The Wonderful
Get ready to be swept away by the mesmerizing sounds of Manchester’s legendary band, James! Celebrating 40 years since their first single release, James has dropped a double album titled “Be Opened By The Wonderful,” featuring 20 tracks from across their diverse career. But this isn’t just any ordinary greatest hits album. James has taken an experimental approach and enlisted fellow Mancunian Joe Duddell to choose and arrange their songs, resulting in a unique and stunning collection of tracks that showcase James’ career in a fresh and exciting way.
The album also features the ORCA 22 Orchestra and the Manchester Inspirational Voices Choir, adding an extra dimension to the band’s already epic sound. The result? A powerful and uplifting musical experience that will leave you breathless and inspired. Take the opening track, “Sometimes,” for example. Originally featuring a racing guitar hook, this revamped version is imbued with slow and emotive strings, giving it an intensely gospel feel. The choir’s backing vocals further add to the song’s emotional intensity, making it a moving experience for anyone who listens to it.
But that’s not all! James’ latest single, “Love Make A Fool,” is an anthemic powerhouse that exudes a tribal aura and a mantra-like quality to its lyrics. With an orchestra and choir adding to the song’s already epic power, this single is proof that James remains a force to be reckoned with in the music world. The emotional and poignant song, “Moving On,” is a tribute to Tim’s mother and close friend, evoking a sense of raw and authentic emotion that will leave you moved and inspired.
And let’s not forget about “Sit Down,” one of James’ most popular songs. Joe Duddell’s version of the song is a testament to his talent for transforming music into something new and exciting. With layer upon layer of strings, the song has a deep richness that elevates it to a different level. It’s a song about connection and reassurance that you are never alone, and with Duddell’s arrangement, it speaks to a wider audience and resonates on a deeper level.
But perhaps most importantly, James isn’t just about catchy tunes and epic arrangements. They also have a message to share. Take “Hey Ma,” for example, a hard-hitting anti-war song that encapsulated the frustration and anger felt by many in the aftermath of the World Trade Centre attacks. It’s a reminder that music has the power to not only evoke emotion but to inspire change.
So what are you waiting for? Get ready to be opened by the wonderful sounds of James and their double album “Be Opened By The Wonderful.” It’s a must-have for fans of the band and anyone interested in discovering their unique sound. With James’ experimentation, Joe Duddell’s expert touch, and the addition of the orchestra and choir, this album is an experience you won’t want to miss. Let James take you on a musical journey like no other!
Review by James Edmond
TRACK LISTING
CD Track Listing:
#1
Sometimes
Love Make A Fool
We’re Gonna Miss You
Tomorrow
The Lake
She’s A Star
Lookaway
Sit Down
Alaskan Pipeline
#2
Someone’s Got It In For Me
Hey Ma
Hello
Beautiful Beaches
Why So Close
Medieval
Hymn From A Village
Say Something
Top Of The World
Moving On
Laid
Vinyl Track Listing:
Side A
Sometimes
Love Make A Fool
We’re Gonna Miss You
Tomorrow
Side B
The Lake
She’s A Star
Lookaway
Sit Down
Alaskan Pipeline
Side C
Someone’s Got It In For Me
Hey Ma
Hello
Beautiful Beaches
Whjy So Close
Side D
Medieval
Say Something
Top Of The World
Moving On
Laid
