James K - Hypersoft Lovejinx Junkdream
James K's Hypersoft Lovejinx Junkdream (2024) not only takes the biscuit with one of the most complicated names to pronounce this year, but its startling beauty will have you hooked before you even get to the fifth syllable. The record comes to us courtesy of AD 93, which continues to push experimental electronics into all sorts of weird and wonderful directions.
The title track merges elements of downtempo and breakbeat into a stunningly sombre tune. It sounds more like an indie, shoegaze dream than anything from this world due to the tsunami of reverberation that coats every morsole. The gorgeous mix of bass drones and white noise can be described as Balearic unless you want to go all the way in and say it's straight-up transcendent at points. James K's production feels far ahead of their contemporaries on so many levels as 'Hypersoft Lovejinx Junkdream' effortlessly weaves together as a piece rich in nostalgic wistfulness while still leaving a fresh taste in your mouth.
On the other hand, 'Blinkmoth (July Mix)' is a trip-hop that could work alongside some big dogs like Portishead, and I don't say that lightly. The delayed adlib flourishes demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to music that feels less reactive than classic hip-hop in such a good way. Every ounce of the record feels constructed with purpose. The introduction of pinpoint falsetto notes feels like a violin string so close to snapping before being expertly brought back from the brink. The whole record feels like a dream.
Although I'm a sucker for production, James k's vocalisation throughout the record is visionary, with fans constantly falling over the angelic tones and elf-like delivery. She has a tone that coats your ears like cold ice cream. Glitzy chords fill the top registers while James K effortlessly harmonises with themself and the music, creating a wash that sweeps over you. With that being two years since the seminal Random Girl (2022) album, it is nice to see James Kay is still drip-feeding us bits of magic. I predict it won't stop anytime soon, which is excellent for music lovers.
Tracklist:
Hypersoft Lovejinx Junkdream
Blinkmoth (July Mix)
Label: AD 93 (2024)
James K - Hypersoft Lovejinx Junkdream
