author: Brian Kassan-Chewy Marble
I had never heard of this guy and his CD is **just killer great hooky pop** with sublime harmony vocals that just resonate in your head for days. Part power pop with harmonic shades of Jellyfish and the playfulness of XTC, this is really original sounding and just one really great record that I think most on this list will love! And this guy is a one man deal like Rick Gallego and Todd Rundgren...I can't stop playing the thing....great choruses that just wash over the brain....
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author: IN MUSIC WE TRUST
The first track that instantly grabbed me and got me singing along was Ed James' "Party At Joe's." Bouncy, infectious, and well written, this number has every piece of the puzzle that makes pop so good. But what was even more amazing was the fact that this song was written, recorded, and performed by Ed James. "Turn It Around," is not as sugar-injected as "Party At Joe's," but it does have the same pop hooks and smooth vocals. Very 70's pop sounding, "Turn It Around," will not leave you unsatisfied. Ed sure has a great mind for creating enjoyable pop treats.
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author: Power Pop Music News
Ed's "Party At Joes" is is one of those great songs that used to make cruising in the car with the AM radio blaring a fun thing to do in the '70s. Probably the best song about partying since Brownsville Station sang "Kings Of The Party" many moons ago. Ed can also produce a great pop song. He shows his serious side with "Turn It Around," which has a chorus that would have made Queen (circa "Killer Queen") proud. Now folks, Ed recorded this pop masterpiece in his bedroom --- and he not only handled the vocals, but played all the instruments himself!
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author: Cosmik Debris Magazine
Meet Ed James is a CD full of fun power-pop verging on bubble gum that is so seamless that you immediately forget you're not hearing a band. James is excellent on all instruments and he's a genuine vocal talent, able to nail the most complex harmonies. Add to that the fact that he's a first rate arranger and you have a star in the making. James' songs are happy, bouncy pop that might have bits of influence from Nick Lowe, The Plimsouls and even The 1910 Fruitgum Company, though most of it is just pure Ed James. There are songs that should be hits here, though, of course, a self-release has zippo chance of reaching the masses. Call your local rock station and request "Party At Joe's" and "How Was I To Know." Let the people decide. Meet Ed James is a good time waiting to be had. This is only his debut release, which means the guy's only going to get better. I can't even imagine what that'll be like.
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