Bloodlines has a serious listen-sitting-on-the-grassy-hill-at-the-festival vibe, which is exactly how it was blissfully enjoyed at the variety of summer festivals it was played at.
Complete with a humbly husky folk-infused voice, singer/songwriter James Mathé is supported by percussive and acoustic rhythms. With the simplicity of his cool vocals needing only the most basic backbeat in order to accentuate the raw nuances of his uncommercialised voice, it’s simple to see that Barbarossa is in it for the long haul.
Originally known for being part of Jose Gonzales’ backing band, Barbarossa has sold out shows across America, with the rest of the world unaware of what is about to hit them.
The main aspiration in his second album included “getting back to basics” and “keeping all the mistakes in, warts and all.” Despite this impressive aspiration, you’d be hard pressed to find many bumps in this album.
For London based Mathé, it has been experimental in terms of musical genres, with one of the standout songs “Pagliacco” boasting an electro sound, while simultaneously reaching inside your chest and squeezing your heart. You won’t know whether to enjoy the amiable musical fusion or cry at the wonderfully despondent lyrics.
You will face many emotional dilemmas like this on your voyage through Bloodlines, but have no fear; you need only wait until the next song for a fresh wave of opposing emotion to tumble you over.
