Search - James :: Millionaires

Another great james album

M. Lohrke | Provo, UT | 08/12/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"unfortunately, james only enjoyed a brief moment in the american sun. 'laid' was a very successful album, and rightfully so; but after that album, james drifted back into relative obscurity in the minds of american music-goers.



what a tragedy.



james' post-'laid' work far excels anything the band put out up to, and including, 'laid.' james purists typically point to 'seven' and the bands artistic apex (and it's fair argument); however, 'millionaires' and the equally brilliant 'pleased to meet you' showcase some of the band's most brilliant moments.



the first two tracks ('crash' and 'just like fred astaire') are a lethal one-two punch. the former a infectious opener (you'll be singing the chorus for days); the latter a gorgeous ballad.



the album is packed with the type of quality songs that would normally make a 'best of.' that was one of the great things about james -- no filler. songs like 'i know what i'm hear for,' and 'afro lover,' show the bands versatility. they do both ballads and rockers with aplomb. tim booth's vocals, as always, are crystal clear (and yep, that's him in 'batman begins' starring as 'victor asaz'). though the band changed around a few members, the chemistry remains tight. 'millionaires' is one of those albums you listen to over and over, each listen revealing things you hadn't heard before. if you have 'millionaires' already, chances are you have the entire james collection. if you're thinking about buying this album, or are unfamiliar with the james catalogue, 'millionaires' will leave you feeling like a wealthy person, indeed."