In Studio with James Brittain Gore and Matt Orme
By Nick Nocketback
In the confines of the secret landmark Fresno recording studio that has captured some of this city’s finest albums, I had a chance to preview James Brittain Gore’s latest work, before public release on August 4th.
James has created a full length album that embodies his soulful folk roots while trailing off into a fully orchestral sound that is as wonderfully eclectic as it is melodic and poignant.
JBG’s self titled work was years in the making, as his writing process took him into the depths of his heart and imagination, the arrangement of the music allowed him to hand pick artists, creating a sound that, to me, is Beatles meets Beck (Mutations) with a sound all his own.
“In The Clouds”, a song you can find on his myspace page, is familiar territory: James’ plaintive, heartfelt songwriting and earnest vocals, yet there’s a full bodied sound that provides an air of timelessness, like listening to a Cars or Beatles track.
“I know a Soul” is all JBG, adding to his list of records that create a story so vivid and sincere that you can see it in your mind like you would reading a novel.
Along with rich, harmonica laden folk songs, JBG has spread his wings like a condor (or any other predatory bird that attacks small land mammals) and produced tracks like “Balloons” that incorporates an antiquated thrift store electric/acoustic of his own creation, and some operatic vocals. The album itself reads like a dream-team Fresno line up including Malcolm Sosa—guitars, Greer McGettrick—bass, Matt Alamono—drums, Freedom—piano/samples, Dylan Tidyman-Jones—trumpet, Carly Stevens—vocals, and Matt Orme—drums and recording genius.
Further, check out James Brittain Gore live at Tokyo Garden on August 4th—post art hop. This CD release party will help to fund an upcoming tour (look for dates at myspace.com/jamesbrittaingore).