A Certain Stranger

James O’Hurley

Released February 14

We have a soft spot for solo artists here at Goth Girl Writing. Granted, yes, we also have soft spots for duos, three/four/five piece bands and so on, but to release something as a solo singer/songwriter? That’s never not impressive. And ‘A Certain Stranger’ by South London based James O’Hurley is, indeed, impressive. The instruments in ‘Wolves’ twinkle and glimmer. Witchcraft? Nope. Simply mesmerising music. ‘Devil Don’t Knock Twice’ has a massive good time vibe from it’s opening bars which gets bigger and better by the time the ridiculously catchy chorus breaks. ‘St Jude’s’ stompin’ stormin’ beat is relentless, ‘Maria’ is a standout song with a slower groove, soaring backing vocals, and a real feeling of forlornness and longing. On top of lush layers of intricate guitars is James’ earnest, expressive voice – which is soft enough to entice you into his stories, but stings enough to give his album edge. ‘A Certain Stranger’ is the most beautiful country folky rock, and it’s stunning.