With an EP title like “Winter” and a track listing that includes “I’m Sorry” and “My Song,” you’d be forgiven for allowing your first impressions to lead you to “this is going be a downer, isn’t it?”
Thankfully, while not exactly a sparkling ray of sunshine, James Mackenzie’s EP is actually quite an upbeat listen. The guitarist and singer has put together four gorgeous, introspective tracks that are mostly just James’ voice and guitar, but when his backing line do come in, it’s usually in a euphoric burst, especially in the EP’s first track “Maybe”—check out the video.
“My Song” has a hint of Noel Gallagher’s soulful delivery about it, especially with the production on the vocals, and bright and full open chords and subtle strings driving the song forward. “I’m Sorry” is a love song with an (ever so slight) piano bar feel to it, while EP closer “It’s All Good” gently brings us back down to earth—before James opens up his soul and gives us a primal scream from the heart.
James’ voice and guitar playing provides a pleasant interlude to a summer’s day, ironic given his EP’s name. It’s not going to set the world on fire, but sometimes you need something comfy to listen to, and the “Winter” EP is about as close to an audio-blanket as you’re gonna get.
“Winter” is out now via Tornface Music.
