Keith James Album. Can you Imagine

To misquote somewhat: Keith James’ catalogue is rather like a box of chocolates. He is famed for his interpretation of the songs of other artists, Nick Drake and Leonard Cohen notable amongst them; he is equally praised for settings and interpretations of poetry, in particular Federico Garcia Lorca, and then there is his own songwriting which is where Can You Imagine? comes in. Like many recent projects, the album came out of the lockdown months and Keith has collaborated with Scottish artist, Jenny Finch, by which I mean painter and ceramicist as well as writer. He’s invested in a home studio and once again worked with Branwen Munn to expand his musical visions.

The opening track, ‘Something I Thought I Understood’, is so powerful that I didn’t want to move on. It’s a song of reflection and regret and the final lines are the killers: “I should have written this years ago, I know I should”. It opens with Keith’s voice, slightly husky, imbued with all his musical influences. ‘Clean Lines’ and the title track take up the same themes but with ‘Never Enough’, the first collaboration with Finch, he begins to raise his spirits a little.

‘Chic A Boom’ is the reminiscences of an old musician. That is what Keith is, of course, but in the languid delivery are Cohen, Dylan and Tom Waits. It’s another cracking song. ‘Clarity Road’ was written by Finch alone and she has captured both the mood of the album and Keith’s style to perfection. ‘Human Kindness’ has an unexpected country feel with Keith getting a bit Johnny Cash. There is a heavy cynicism in the opening verses but he manages to turn his back on that.

Can You Imagine? closes with three more collaborations with Jenny Finch. ‘Zoom Girl’ has me a little baffled and I’d like to get back to you on it, if you don’t mind. ‘All Around’ is about ecological destruction. It’s another powerful song and wrapped up in it are some of the ideas found in ‘The Times They Are A-Changin’’ but in a very different context. ‘Life In Black And White’ seems to find the writers at a point of acceptance and understanding of all that has gone before but that raises questions.

Can You Imagine? is actually a double CD. The first disc has the fully orchestrated editions of the songs and the second contains acoustic versions but neither Keith nor I will call them demos. It is instructive to listen to what an effect Branwen has had on the songs and I suppose this will be how we’ll hear them live if lockdown doesn’t hit us again.

Dai Jeffries

‘Some of the most atmospheric and emotive music you will ever hear’

The Independent

‘Famed for his interpretations of Songs by other great Artists’

Dai Jeffries

‘Musicians brave enough to make the music they really believe in. Keith James is one of these’

Bob Harris

‘A fresh and powerful approach to these wonderful songs’

Patrick Humphries – Nick Drake biographer

“An absolute must”

Mark Radcliffe - BBC Radio

‘Keith James has become a pillar of trust. A sublimely intimate and engaging voice’ Sunday Times

‘certainly the UK’s most celebrated and evocative interpreter of golden music’ The Guardian

‘a sensitive and pleasingly understated delivery, all the better that the songs might speak for themselves’ Acoustic Magazine

Hello Keith, I always go to The Stables to see and listen to you. One time after your performance I spoke to you, telling you how I had been unable to listen to Leonard Cohen after the passing of my dear husband. Thanks to you, you allowed me to begin again. You also gave me one of your CD’s, which I love. I so enjoyed your last performance there. I cannot thank you enough. Looking forward to your next performance at the Stables. Take care x

Hi Keith. Have just received and listened to your fabulous cd, Paradise Lost. Can I just say, I loved your song, Life in a western world 2020/1978? Really moving. Regards, Liz Robinson xx

Keith James' Concert for a Changing World in the intimate surroundings of the Globe at Hay on Wye was truly memorable. The most poignant of songs sang with such sensitivity and meaning, some with extra verses of his own and some songs penned by himself. My tears started as soon as he introduced the first song and continued more or less throughout. Some old songs by Leonard Cohen , Joni Mitchell and Cat Stevens have as much resonance today as they did 50 years ago. Poignant but also uplifting and inspirational.

Came away thinking the human spirit will not be defeated and there is much to be done to save our burning planet. Currently on tour for the rest of this year. Catch him if you can. Last night was the best. He is such a lovely human being and so talented.

I’ve been to a number of Keith James’ gigs. Each one has been awesome

Keith is a great musician who treats the music of the people he pays tribute to in his performances with great respect. I recommend his live performances to anyone who gets the chance.

Ian Walker

Fantastic evening, thank you, I’ve been listening this morning and loving your composition of white room. You have such a soothing voice. Can't wait to see you again in the autumn! And what you are doing for the refugees is great...... only 19 more to go! You'll do it.....

Blue Angel!! Stunning and beautiful

Hi Keith,

Here is the note from our audience feedback book!

‘So blissful, I wanted three sets x’

An absolute pleasure having you at the centre, looking forward to Songs of Leonard Cohen as I’m sure are the audience from tonight’s show!

All the best, Shaun, Ashcroft Arts Centre

Thanks Keith. Last nights gig was about as good as live music gets.

Glorious evening of especially sensitive and poetic songs at Unit 23 Live - I cried, in that good way Cohen has of me. Thank you, Keith James - the stars are bright tonight.

Just wanted to thank you for your recent performance at Exeter Phoenix. I was in attendance for Pear Shaped Magazine (a student publication at the University of Exeter) and I've just written a review that should be online shortly. I only recently became a fan of Leonard Cohen - I'm a serious muso, but I only got round to checking out his music after he passed away and I was invited to perform at a local tribute gig (did a weird synth cover of Death of a Ladies' Man in full haha!) I had a great evening - both as a fan and musician. I really loved your re-arrangements of the music and I thought your discussion with the audience was a wonderful touch and really welcoming. Thanks again, and I'll be sure to send you the review when it's up.

Oliver Rose

Hi Keith,

Thanks again for Saturday, the feedback from our audience has been incredibly positive, a few people have said it’s the best thing they’ve ever seen here!

A great evening all round!

Many Thanks

Rachael Savage, Otley Courthouse

Hi Keith

Stunning gig in Lyme Regis last evening, Keith! Beautifully and sensitively produced. Great to see you again after so long! I'll see you much sooner next time.

Best regards to you, Jerry

Totally agree with your comment Jerry. I saw Keith recently in Otley singing the songs of Leonard Cohen. What a fabulous evening! Very moving too.

Dear Keith,

Thank you for your fantastic performance at the coronation hall (ulverston) tonight. I brought along a client I care for who suffers with a brain injury and doesn't get many pleasures in life, but you made his night. He adores Leonard Cohen and came away from your performance in great spirits, he loved every minute. Keep up the good work, and thanks again!

Katherine xx

Hi Keith,

Still on a high after seeing your performance tonight in Belfast (CQAF). Thoroughly enjoyed every minute - but struggled to stop myself singing along "outwardly" to almost every song! Looking forward to your next Belfast gig. x