James Vincent McMorrow is Dublin’s answer to Bon Iver. His debut album, Early In The Morning, was released in March of 2010 in Ireland and landed at #1 in iTunes in that country proving that Ireland has better taste in music than the United States.
Early In The Morning was just released this week in the states via Vagrant Records (The Hold Stead, Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros, J. Roddy Walston and The Business). I’m just digging in, but I’d best describe his sound as a cross between Bon Iver (vocals and slow tempo tracks), Megafaun (sparse banjo plucking), and Mumford and Sons (upbeat tracks with commercial appeal). Early In The Morning mostly consists of folk-inspired music featuring acoustic guitar, banjo, organ, and James’ signature falsetto vocals.
James Vincent McMorrow will garner his fair share of buzz in 2011. And deservedly so. Although it’s early, I predict this album will show up on many best of 2011 lists.
James Vincent McMorrow – If I Had A Boat
Video: James Vincent McMorrow – This Old Dark Machine
James Vincent McMorrow – Follow You Down To The Red Oak Tree
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Wow! What a fantastic voice! Thanks for the great review!
I just bought this last night and I couldn’t agree with you more. It’s all ready had a few spins on my player. Very bad ass! Great review! Thanks.
Have to agree with you- this is pretty solid. ‘If I Had a Boat’ is a really stunning song.