J Smith - (...) And you chose not to laugh
James Smith formed Gypsies on the Autobahn at 16 and the band released two albums with Universal Music Ireland, “Born Brief” in 2017 and “Suspended” in 2019. The band saw success supporting Little Green Cars, Bombay Bicycle Club, Bleeding Heart Pigeons, selling out Whelans, playing at Vicar St., Other Voices, and touring the festival circuits. After 14 years, the band amicably parted ways in early 2020. Smith’s independence spurred him to produce a burst of dance-inspired remixes under the name YURN for Soda Blonde, ZASKA, Danny G & The Major 7ths with Tolü Makay, Nnic, Gareth Quinn Redmond, and more. He now brings out his debut album entitled (...) And you chose not to laugh
The opening Eight Pounds is plaintive song with evocative strings to enhance the emotional impact. It sets the tone for the album, at least lyrically.
In the Death of Something Beautiful continues on the same note, the haunting arrangement sends chills down your spine and makes you read between the lines. However, there is a silver lining. The message of this song tells us that even the darkest times and events in our lives make us stronger if we do not face it alone. Deeply personal song showing the vulnerability of a human being.
Rain is an evocative standout, making you soak all the emotions. The piano beautifully imitates the raindrops and the strings connect all the corners of the soul in one touching piece.
There is no doubt J Smith can sing. He shows his range throughout the album yet certain sadness connects all the songs. Good Women is a good example of his vocal abilities. Smith makes us feel priviledged as he shares his deepest feelings with complete strangers hoping it will resonate. And he is not wrong. Painful to listen to at times but for all the good reasons. If it affects you, you are a human. And as humans, we are capable of dealing with the things life throws at us.
Intimacy and vulnerability are the key factors on this courageous debut that shows that if you open your heart to the right people, you cannot fail.