Australia may be the smallest of the seven continents, but it has certainly yielded a substantial contribution to "future soul" music. Joining the likes of SoulBounce faves like Hiatus Kaiyote, Jordan Rakei and Sam Sparro is Sydney-based singer/songwriter/producer James Chatburn. The relative newcomer first caught our attention last summer with "Wait For the People." Now he's preparing for the imminent release of his self-produced sophomore EP, Cracks and Breaks.
For the album's first single, "Holiday Love," Chatburn teams up with Jordan Rakei (who also co-produced the track). The smooth, hushed harmonies of the intro break way into a hypnotic thumper with bass-heavy synth and head nod-inducing percussion. James gets things started with a seductively aching tenor, followed by Rakei's effortless falsetto. The vocal blend of the two artists is perfection, each seamlessly picking up where the other leaves off. Rumor has it that Rakei will be featured on another track from the album, and if it's anything like this, we are here for it!
While we wait for the official release of Cracks and Breaks, grab a free copy of "Holiday Love," follow Chatburn on SoundCloud and purchase his debut EP on iTunes. You can also check out his work with his partner in music (and love), South African indie folk singer Donna Arendse, as the duo The Septembers.
