Album Review: Interesting Times

Otautahi indie singer-songwriter James Constable released his second album Interesting Times on the 16th of June.

This ten track album follows on from the 19 years old’s debut Tui, which I had the pleasure of reviewing when it was released in 2021. I was eager to see how James’ follow up album compared to his debut.

Interesting Times is a collection of upbeat tunes, paired with darker, moodier tones. James stays true to his jangle pop roots, but there is a definite edge and strong Kiwi music influence to this collection of songs compared with Tui. His vocals have notably improved too, having grown in strength since 2021, with James showing off his range more so that he did on Tui. Looking back at my previous comments in my last review, I mentioned how it would be great to hear more of James’ higher register, and that he’s at his best when he belts. While I still felt that Interesting Times could’ve had more of those moments, the album is still just as impressive as its predecessor.

Highlights of the album are, naturally, when James shows us what he can do vocally. Lead single and second track I Want To Save Someone has a triumphant end to it with James belting out the final notes in the outro. Asylum Kitty has hints of this too, as does album closer You’ve Flown Too Close To The Sun, which is the perfect conclusion to the album. Camera features a catchy guitar riff and use of an EBow, as well as melodic repetition that ensures the track stays with you long after the first listen. Other standouts include uplifting album opener Our Song and the darker Keep An Eye On Cadence, which features a beautiful string instrumental.

Overall, it’s great to see how James has grown as an artist in the last couple of years. While still young, James has a long career in music in front of him. I do hope he continues to lean into his higher register, as his voice really shines when he showcases it. I look forward to hearing many more albums from James.