Upon announcing his sophomore album, ‘Electric Light,’ English singer-songwriter James Bay returns with a second promo single, “Pink Lemonade.”

James Bay started off 2018 in polarizing fashion.  The return of the Grammy-nominated English singer-songwriter is awesome, any way you shake it.  Unfortunately, promo single “Wild Love” received mixed reviews.  It signaled a change of direction for Bay, which is admirable, but it was tough to completely get behind. With the announcement of his fourth studio album, Electric Light (arrives May 18), Bay released a second single, “Pink Lemonade.”

Like “Wild Love,” “Pink Lemonade” contrasts Bay’s debut album, Chaos and the Calm.  The sound is much more aggressive, characterized by its robust electric guitars.  Bay – rather his producers and instrumentalists – puts some stank into the musical backdrop.  There’s a bit of a garage-rock sensibility, but the overall quality of sound is arguably better.  That said, part of the ‘stank’ is messy production.  This isn’t aloofness on the production end of things – it seems to be the desired effect. Likewise, Bay graces the listener with distorted, assertive pipes that clearly lack the finesse of “Let it Go” or “Move Together.”

Final Thoughts 

Hmm, time will ultimately tell how Electric Light will play out for James Bay.  The energy and grit showcased by Bay on this record is excellent.  It’s nice to see him in a ‘balls to the walls’ setting.  That said, “Pink Lemonade” suffers slightly from its lack of finesse. It benefits from its driving groove, bass line, and a catchy chorus.  Furthermore, it plays out better with successive listens.   

James Bay • Electric Light • Republic • Release: 5.18.18

Writer: James Bay & Jon Green | Producer: James Bay, Jon Green & Paul Epworth

Photo Credit: Republic