Emily James, Can’t Say Goodbye Review

by Eliana Fermi on January 18, 2019

Pop

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Emily James, Can’t Say Goodbye Review

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Emily James is a vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter based in Los Angeles CA. The nineteen-year-old singer grew up in New York, surrounded by the sounds of pop, rock, blues and folk. At the age of ten, James started writing her own songs. In August of 2016, James released her self-titled EP, Emily James. At eighteen, James released her debut album, Til the Morning, which contained twelve originals written by James and produced by Ryan Hadlock (The Lumineers, Vance Joy). Her single “Foreign Land,” was released on November 9, 2018, and was written and produced by James. The song features full productions with a strong pop feel. Soon after, James release an acoustic version of “Foreign Land” accompanied by a live video of the performance. With just James and her guitar, the acoustic version brought out a new side of her artistry. Now James is releasing “Can’t Say Goodbye,” with her singing and playing an acoustic piano. Her voice and presence have a strong impact in an acoustic setting and “Can’t Say Goodbye” is another solid track from the gifted songwriter.

Overview

Item Reviewed

Can't Say Goodbye

Author

Eliana Fermi

January 18, 2019

In Short

Can't Say Goodbye (single)

Details

Release Date: January 18, 2019

Label

Self-Released

Length

3:58

James has a beautiful voice and solid songwriting skills. Her music flows and her lyrics are easy to relate to and enjoy.

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Album Rating

9.1

Bottom Line

James’s single, “Can’t Say Goodbye” is a moving ballad with James singing and playing piano. The ballad was written and produced by James, who chose to keep the track unadorned and bare. James explains, "I wanted the production to help convey the raw emotions surrounding a relationship that doesn't survive but is very difficult to let go of." Although the song is a ‘break-up’ song, it still speaks to the love that remains amidst sadness and regret. With a steady chordal pattern on the piano, James’ warm voice sings the catchy melody. The melody has a nice shape with an emotional descending figure that fits the lyrics perfectly. James’ voice sounds full and there are well-placed vocal harmonies that build the track. The track builds very nicely, climaxing with vocal counterpoint and harmonies and James’ strong falsetto voice. James’ wonderful vocal range, including her great falsetto, as well as the exceptional choir-like harmony vocals gives an emotional listening experience. James is certainly one to watch and that’s the short of it!

9.1

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