Flat Cap Records 2012
Jamie Hartman was the vocalist with now defunct indie rockers Ben’s Brother (I seem to recall seeing and liking the song they performed on the Graham Norton Show) and this is his debut solo album. Already he has been picking up good reviews as well as a coveted Album of the Week slot on BBC Radio 2.
The real stand out song (on a very strong album) is ‘Happy New Year’, where Hartman’s vocals soar over a big musical backing a la Coldplay. What a fantastically uplifting tune, no wonder ‘Match Of The Day’ used it over one of their montage pieces. The single ‘Girlwise’ is another instant hit on the ears, covering his younger days and the discovery of girls! I would bet on ‘Heartwarm’ being lifted as a single, a slower paced song but again very uplifting.
The big production on ‘Before I Close My Eyes’ closes the album in style, a heartfelt modern day lullaby. An interesting take on the Bob Dylan classic ‘Hard Rain’, where Hartman is joined by Rosi Golan. ’Finest Hour’ reminded me of Snow Patrol, mainly for the musical backing and the way the vocals build to a crescendo on the chorus.
For an album of radio friendly, uplifting songs this album hits the spot and perfect for those who enjoy Coldplay and Snow Patrol.
****1/2
Jason Ritchie
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
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In 2023 he signed a recording deal with Sony in Canada and released a new single on 15 September.
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Power Plays w/c 10 June 2024
BASTION ROSE (Epictronic Records)
VOODOO RAMBLE Midnight Ride (indie)
BYWATER CALL As If (indie)
ESCAPE THE PARADIGM Cold (Curtain Call Records)
DEFENCES Gold In The Dark (indie)
BRAVE RIVAL Fairytale (indie)
MOJO ACES Old Crow (indie)
Featured Albums w/c 10 June 2024
09:00-12:00 NESTOR Teenage Rebel (Napalm Records)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003-2023
14:00-16:00 MIRACLE MILE East Of Ely (indie)
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