James Arthur, Falling like the Stars | Track Review

Released in advance of a highly-anticipated new album, British pop standout James Arthur delivers a mature, well-rounded single with “Falling like the Stars.”

 “I swear to God, when I come home / I’m gonna hold you so close…” Sigh, James Arthur is back with new music – that’s always good news! “Falling like the Stars” marks the first ‘solo’ single by Arthur during 2019.  Previously, he collaborated with Danish DJ/record producer Martin Jensen on the song “Nobody,” which was released in March 2019.  “Falling like the Stars” hence follows some solid singles from 2018 (“You Deserve Better”, “At My Weakest”, and “Empty Space”), though Mr. Arthur hasn’t dropped an album since 2016 (Back from the Edge)! “Falling like the Stars” hopefully appears on the singer’s highly-anticipated third LP.

“Falling like the Stars” gives James Arthur another potential hit – no questions asked. First and foremost, the British pop musician is able to showcase his stellar instrument.  Arthur has an incredible voice, and on “Falling like the Stars” he continues to exhibit his versatility.  His versatile performance consists of a sweet falsetto as well as grittier, more impassioned moments where he ‘lets loose.’ Among the best moments is definitely the chorus, where the love is pronounced:

“And I need to know that we’re

Fallin’ so fast, we’re fallin’ like the stars, fallin’ in love

And I’m not scared to say those words

With you I’m safe, we’re fallin’ like the stars, we’re fallin’ in love.”

Even when Arthur provides more oomph, he still maintains a certain amount of control – that’s a pro by all means.  Additionally, he’s backed by respectable production work courtesy of Alex Beitzke and Bradley Spence.  No, the acoustic-driven backdrop isn’t game changing but the combination of acoustic guitar, piano, and string plays to Arthur’s strengths by all means.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, “Falling like the stars” is a mature, well-rounded pop single for James Arthur.  No, he doesn’t ‘flip the game on its side’ with the single’s release, but it does give him another respectable, worthwhile song.

James Arthur • Falling like the Stars [Single] • Columbia • Release: 5.10.19

Photo Credit: Columbia