J Smith

Learning piano from the age of 5, music became an essential part of James' life and it only expanded when finding the guitar and other instruments. With music being a medium in which James could process tragedy or moments of elation, it became an integral part of his life.

James Smith has been making music for 14 years fronting indie rock band Gypsies on the Autobahn and creating electronic music under the alias YURN. But now he turns his attention to his newest and most honest project, J Smith. Releasing three tracks to critical acclaim, James is ready to unveil his debut album.

Boasting a large range from intimate songs sung live with just his guitar, to large ballads with string and brass quartets, '(...) And you chose not to laugh' highlights J's abilities as not only a songwriter but a producer too. It is an ode to love, the darker side of it, with him and his wife having to come to terms with a pregnancy loss and all that which surrounds that. But happily, the pair will be blessed with a new addition soon.

Taking influence from artists Nick Drake, Julia Jacklin and Sun Kil Moon, lyrical integrity and vulnerability is to the fore of J Smith's ethos when writing. Whether it was writing a love song to his wife, reaching a hand out to a friend in need, or lamenting the loss of his father through his mother's eyes, J Smith strives to stay true to the writing process which starts simply on a guitar or at the piano.

'(...) And you chose not to laugh' is out now.