Track of the Day: Patrick James “Up” (2019)

Acclaimed Sydney singer-songwriter Patrick James is back with a new single, an EP on its way, and an intimate East Coast tour. All in the next couple of months.

“Up”, a delightful piano driven anthem, is the first taste of the new EP What We’re Fighting For, which is set for release early next month. The EP will be his first major release since 2015’s Outlier, and follows a recent relocation to the UK to work on What We’re Fighting For and the next stage of his career.

The new single offers listeners a glimpse of a more polished sound, it’s less indie folk and more alternative or indie pop. Whilst there are have been changes to his sound, there are still a few reliable constants: quality vocals and wonderful songwriting. I’ve been a fan of James’ work for a little while now, and I’ve always been struck by the quality of his vocals. On “Up” he sounds as good as ever, if not better.

Likewise, James has always been a quality songwriter, you need only look at the popularity and acclaim his earlier singles garnered to see that. That form has continued through into “Up”, with James exploring themes of maturity and letting go of the past. Like the best of his work it’s emotive and plucks at the heart strings.

“Up” is a welcome reminder of James’ talents as a songwriter and a performer, and a tantalising glimpse at the next stage in his artistic development.

“Up” is available now. The new EP What We’re Fighting For is set for release on March 8th. Patrick James will be hitting the road in April for a series of intimate shows on the East Coast, tickets for which can be purchased HERE. You can also find Patrick on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Patrick James 2019 Australian Tour Dates

Apr 6: The Lansdowne – Sydney, NSW
Apr 12: Workers Club – Melbourne, VIC
Apr 18: Black Bear Lodge – Brisbane, QLD

Header Image by Glashier

Simon Clark

Books Editor. An admirer of songs and reader of books. Simon has a PhD in English and Comparative Literature. All errant apostrophes are his own.