James Ollier is a British singer-songwriter whose life as a traveller profoundly influences his musical output. Based in London but often on the move, he draws inspiration from his journeys, crafting songs that instil a deep sense of wanderlust and movement.
Since he began performing and writing at the age of eleven, he’s primarily explored the acoustic indie folk sphere. However, since 2019, his sound has evolved, incorporating the electric guitar and adding echoes of post rock stylings, resulting in a unique sound that’s struck a chord with listeners around the world.
First sharing his sound with the world back in 2017 via the debut EP, The Lifeboats, he’s since shared a string of well-received singles and a second EP with The Nomad Frays in 2018. Over the years he’s earned a plethora of accolades from racking up over half a million spins of his music online, several releases reaching the charts as well as securing extensive radio support.
Following the success of his 2021 single “Learn to Pray,” James Ollier now makes an emphatic return with a brand new single titled “Holding onto Something.” Written about leaving places and moving onwards, the new song continues his nomadic aspirations and distils his wanderlust into a delicate folk pop outing.
Brought in by the subtly lively strums of acoustic guitar, James Ollier’s gentle vocals spin storytelling lyrics that recount his recent adventures, framed against a heartwarming tale of love and longing. Building with the soft patter of percussive elements, his voice calmly rises to spin memorable melodic leads resulting in a truly delightful progressive folk outing that’s both pop-focused and tender.
With the latest showcase of his enduring songwriting talent and superb performance panache, “Holding onto Something” offers a poignant folk pop sound that gradually swells with the shuffle of drums and intricate instrumental dashes to cast an enchanting finale. Having made a welcome return to sharing his compelling sound, we can’t wait to see what this talented artist has in store for the rest of 2024 and beyond.
Listen to Holding onto Something below
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