Crossover by JAMES KEEN is a charming and candid alt-folk expression of connection and isolation. The title crossover is far more profound than a single interpretation or meaning. Throughout the album the word takes on different meanings, displaying the crossover between narrative and melody as well as highlighting the crossover of experiences at the core of Keen’s music.
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As an artist born in Australia, raised in Hong Kong and currently residing in the UK, there are points where Keen defines that Crossover through the mix of influences that affected him growing up and into adulthood, coming to the UK. The album also combines a wide variety of sonic influences to match the melding moods that evolve as the album goes on. With elements of soft rock and R&B intertwining with the folk foundation to create a unique listening experience. It reminded me a little of the TV show Smiling Friends, each track pulling the required sonic inspiration to depict its narrative in the most interesting way possible and yet still finding a cohesive tone and structure that acts as a throughline for the project overall. The first track that stood out to me was Falling or Flying. The track has a nervous desperation that makes itself apparent with the unusual vocal effects and phrases like “there is no other way.” The enigmatic yet emotionally charged vocal performance gives the track a poetic intensity. To me, the song felt like an acceptance of the lifestyle of an artist and the fear of shouting into a void, struggling to stand out in a crowded scene. The track Crossover also made an impression. It feels like a deep breath, a release from the tension of some of the previous tracks. It’s rare to find a track that feels authentic and joyous at the same time. The phrase “just a guy that got lucky” gives context to the love he’s experiencing in a candid and relatable way. Some of the bright and shiny guitars reminded me of Upside Down by Jack Johnson. It captures a similar relaxing, youthful, honest joy.
Overall this project shines just as much in the moments where it feels tense as it does in the moments where it relaxes. It feels well thought out and honest. I love its genre-bending sonic landscape.
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