Single Review: You

James Hunter is a singer songwriter based in Wellington. He’s been an enthusiastic musician for some time, writing songs throughout his childhood, and also having a big interest in acting and theatre. Covid gave him the time to write, produce and record. The release of the You EP will arrive in January 2021. You is a single off James’ Hunter’s same titled and upcoming EP. It’s acoustic folk, yet remains open.

Musically, the song is soft in tone and delicate to listen to. It initially concentrates on acoustic fingerpicking to give power to James’ elegant voice. He sings strikingly high. The lyrics are contemplative of a loved one. He speaks of his soul as a moor, creating imagery of nature, a powerful symbol in folk. This technique opens the listener’s mind, and creates imagery of space and natural soundscapes. The song builds at about 1min 44sec, setting us in a very calm and rhythmic sway, making a path to the story being told.  

Lyrically, the song focuses on a feeling of having someone. There’s a gratitude of having had love, and not having regret, whilst celebrating a powerful memory. Yet, an overcoming feeling is made strong with the line “All you gave me when no one was around”. The listener is swooped into the artist’s remembrance. James’ voice soars enduringly higher, lifting us in embrace with a sorrowful touch. It is bold, brave and resonant in a year when many can relate to love and loss. Without having to know the story, the listener is drawn to the emotive and encapsulating feeling this part of the song produces. It’s a sonic musical finale, leaving the artist vulnerable, yet very connected to our open ears, minds and hearts.