A layered but simple introduction gives way to spine-chilling vocals. Soulful and effortless, James Barrett carries ‘Beginning’ with ease, an emotive song that stirs your core. If you’ve ever heard a particularly poignant song at a certain point in your life where you really needed it, you’ll know the feeling. Lyrics that are unafraid to be honest make the track entirely relatable and the message matches the sad sounding guitar perfectly.
Merging into ‘College’ things turn slightly more upbeat musically, but the same can’t be said for content. “I only have myself to blame,” Barrett sings with a feeling of defeated heartbreak. ‘Weis Parking Lot’ has an Americana sound, not too dissimilar from The Gaslight Anthem’s slowest moments, and those obvious Pennsylvanian roots are given their chance to shine.
With a significantly more folk sound, ‘Dead Bird’s poetic metaphor is so subdued, you almost forget you’re listening to music as it becomes a dreamy background atmosphere. ‘Before I Died’ is impossible to ignore however, with its Frightened Rabbit style combination of forlorn vocals and solemn guitars.
Title track ‘Twenty’ closes the EP with an acoustic, nostalgic love song, singing, “I will miss you every day.” The five songs James Barrett has produced for this release are a reminder of the emo songs of the past, with melodies that inspire tears and singalongs. With sincerity instead of clichés and an openness that allows us to climb into his stories, this young singer-songwriter is on to something special.
KATHRYN BLACK