Drawing us in with an intimate, strummed guitar and atmospheric vocals, James Ollier opens Holding onto Something with a stripped back, folk-pop energy and metaphorical prose as he sings, “Life’s like a rolling stone, collecting all that was known…”
The opus expands with intentional depth, luscious harmonies and a high emotional quotient to take us on an introspective, existential, and philosophical trip through the artist’s unique mind. We appreciate the evolution of the composition with textured drums, tapping into an anthemic frequency, in unison with the talent’s layered vocals.
James Ollier is not just a musician; he’s a wanderer, a modern-day troubadour who infuses his music with the spirit of his travels. We learn that Ollier finds profound inspiration for his songs from his time spent exploring the world, gifting audiences and listeners with a deep sense of intrigue and the irresistible urge to move and explore.
Ollier’s musical journey began early, with him playing on stages and writing songs since he was just eleven years old. His early work, characterized by heartfelt lyrics and melodic acoustic arrangements, captivated listeners and painted vivid pictures of the places he had seen and the experiences he had lived.
However, in 2019, Ollier’s musical path took a transformative turn with the adoption of an electric guitar. This shift marked his venture into the expansive soundscapes of post-rock, a genre known for its ethereal qualities and emotional depth. The integration of electric guitar into his music introduced a new dimension to his sound, one that is more textured and layered, yet still deeply personal and evocative.
The result of this evolution is an artist who masterfully bridges the gap between acoustic indie folk and post-rock, delivering performances that are both transformative and immersive. Ollier’s music retains his signature storytelling ability, inviting audiences to embark on a musical journey through his eyes. His live performances are particularly compelling, as he effortlessly weaves together the gentle strumming of his acoustic roots with the soaring crescendos of his post-rock explorations.
We love what the talented creator is manifesting, and have added James Ollier to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our brand new TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream his wider discography, including Glory Days, Nomad Frays, and All That’s Good!