LAWRENCE ARABIA is the pseudonym of James Milne, born 1981 in Christchurch, New Zealand. James has already established a rich musical resume as a former member of the Brunettes, The Ruby Suns and one time touring member of Okkervil River. He has also produced for films and theatre and wrote the score for the indie film hit, “Eagle vs Shark”. “BEAUTIFUL YOUNG CREW” is his infectious new single and the first track to be taken from “Chant Darling”, his UK and Bella Union debut, tinged with lazy tropical rhythms and witty lyricism. This song will stick in your brain… in the best possible way.
Download “BEAUTIFUL YOUNG CREW” HERE and please feel free to share this.
“Chant Darling” is in large part hewn from James’ gradual relocation to London. Recorded over 18 months in a studio in Stockholm, three flats in London, a garden shed in Port Chalmers, a car club in Wellington and a studio in Auckland, “Chant Darling” is a modern pop masterpiece… Like a mutant hybrid of Jonathan Richman, The Beatles and Beach Boys… Truly, resistance is futile…
These 10 songs provide a wonderful example of classic song-writing combining sugar hits of harmony, sweet melody and lush orchestration that will set you reeling as the witty and sometimes forlorn tales of indolence, longing and romantic misadventure hit home.
James has spent much of the past 12 months gallivanting around Europe on tour with Feist (his biggest fan) and other luminaries, whilst winning glowing write ups in the press. “Chant Darling” was produced by Lawrence Arabia and mixed and mastered by Olly Harmer.