DanaHaynes's Music Collectibles 4-12 James
James is a British alternative rock band formed in 1982 in Manchester, England. The band originally consisted of lead vocalist Tim Booth, guitarist Paul Gilbert, bassist Jim Glennie, and drummer Gavan Whelan. Early in their career, James built a following in the indie rock scene with their energetic live performances and a distinctive blend of folk rock, post-punk, and new wave influences. Their early releases, like Stutter (1986) and Strip-Mine (1988), saw moderate success in the UK, but it wasn't until their 1990 album Gold Mother that they achieved widespread recognition. The album featured the hit single "Sit Down," which became a massive anthem in the UK and helped James gain a strong fanbase.
Throughout the 1990s, James continued to evolve musically, experimenting with various genres while maintaining a loyal following. Their next album, Laid (1993), marked a significant shift towards more introspective, intimate soundscapes, and the title track became one of their most well-known songs. James found commercial success in the UK and international recognition, though they were often considered one of the most underrated bands of the decade. Despite lineup changes over the years, with Booth remaining the band's consistent frontman, James has continued to release albums, such as Pleased to Meet You (2001) and La Petite Mort (2014), exploring a variety of sonic landscapes. Their ability to evolve while maintaining their signature blend of introspective lyrics and expansive sound has kept them relevant and beloved by fans.
