The Troubadour | Los Angeles, CA | August 3rd, 2015 | Photo Credit: Chad Elder |
With dialogue like, “I have no idea why any of you know who I am,” Jarryd James officially introduced himself to the Los Angeles crowd at a sold out Troubadour and found himself following in the footsteps of a 23-year old Elton John by making his American debut at the iconic venue. Now the Australia native may have been at a loss as to how and why his popularity has expanded past his hometown of Brisbane, but one listen to either of his two singles (“Do You Remember” or “Give Me Something”) and the reason is crystal clear. James crafts rich, R&B flavored, beat heady yet fresh feeling love songs with soulful vocals that effortlessly bend into a flawless falsetto. Airing out songs from his upcoming EP, as well as from his debut full length album due out later this year on Interscope Records, two particular highlights were the funky rhythmic changes of “The Way You Like It” and the impressive drama of “High.” Backed by a solid band of players/friends, James held the rapt attention of the room with unassuming ease and it was hard to miss the adoration from the female contingent.
Safe to say that, as debuts go, this one was a smashing success. There’s worse company to keep than that of Sir Elton John.
