James Redmond - Video City 2

Released: 21 Apr 2023
Label: AV8 Records

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This is the debut album of James Redmond from Liverpool and it is a brilliantly unique and Psychedelic listen. 

The album opens with 'Castle of Illusion' (many of the tracks here have videogame references) which is an eerie sounding instrumental with hints of electronic.

'Running With The Devil' features James Skelly of The Coral (Redmond once recorded demos with the band) and is a moody blend of Psych and Beats. It is quite lo-fi but hypnotic and it really draws you in.

My favourite here is 'Child of the Ocean', a very anthemic 60s sounding Sea Shanty. The sound of course brought to mind The Coral and Waterpistol era Shack.

'Rainbow Road' is a Hip Hop homage to all things Mario. It is wonderfully humorous and the sound effects brought back memories of playing Super Mario Bros on my Gameboy Color as a kid! 

'Will She Meet Me in The Morning' is a heartfelt love song and would not have sounded out of place on an early Coral album. 'The Fang' is more 90s sounding with hints of  The Verve. It is quite surreal with some really quirky lyrics.

A superb album with so many different styles and sounds. Highly recommended.