James Gasson
A developing norm in the mainstream is for artists, who feel they have sufficient support from fans, and indeed enough capital from their band, to branch off and experiment on solo projects. Brandon Flowers, Julian Casablancas, Paul Banks have all deflected from successful acts to display their solitary talents.
One common denominator is that the majority of those who front their own material have a tendency to been the main player in their group, or at very least the lead guitarist. So when an individual, who has been hidden away at the back of the stage for countless live performances, providing the backbone, steps up to the plate and showcases their ability, it can prove refreshing.
James Gasson, who resides in Brighton, has had a bash, but not just on the drums as he is accustomed to. Perhaps unsurprisingly, opening number 'The Awakening' kicks off with a simple drum beat, being swiftly accompanied by Gasson's vocals, which on first listen appear relatively strong. The bass line is reminiscent of Kings Of Leon's early material drawing a rash and raw sound, whilst the lead has a sense of a Graham Cox reverberation.
What becomes apparent on the four track EP, is that there is an underlying early Birt pop/post Nirvana feel to proceedings, considerably so on second offering 'Somebody Do Something'. A distant comparison could be drawn to that of Danish artist Tim Christensen the flow of melody and haziness of vocals.
'Dissolver' is a heavier, more rapturous number, signalling its intentions from the first drum beat and distinct bass line, whilst 'It Must Have Been A Dream' provides a far more laid back sound, a simple drum beat accompanied by lead suggests a more shoe-gazing approach, but leaps into action with a vibrant up shift in tempo.
All in all, for an accustomed drummer boy who has decided to lay down material produced solely off his own back, James Gasson demonstrates a fine array of musical ability and talent, one which shouldn't be overlooked.