Le Concorde’s Mystical Journey Continues with ‘Saint James’
Introduction to ‘Saint James’
Continuing the exploration of mystical themes and nostalgic 80s vibes established in his previous release, ‘Corpus Christi’, Los Angeles-based songwriter Stephen Becker, known as Le Concorde, returns with a new single titled ‘Saint James’. This track embodies the essence of what Becker refers to as “sophisti-pop,” a genre blending sophisticated elements with catchy pop melodies.
The Sound of ‘Saint James’
‘Saint James’ features a rich tapestry of sound, characterized by strolling guitars, powerful drumming, and stylish synth rhythms. Le Concorde’s vocals soar to almost angelic heights, creating an ethereal listening experience that captivates from the very first note.
Collaborative Influences
In crafting this track, Becker draws from a diverse array of indie-pop influences, collaborating with notable musicians such as:
- Roger Manning Jr. (Jellyfish) on keyboards
- Lewis Gordon (Deacon Blue) on bass
- Ross McFarlane (Texas, The Proclaimers) on drums
- Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow (The Posies) providing backing vocals
This collective of talented artists lends an authentic 80s feel to ‘Saint James’, grounding it in a nostalgic yet fresh soundscape.
Inspiration Behind ‘Saint James’
The track serves as the second single from Le Concorde’s upcoming album, ‘Second Mansions’. The inspiration for ‘Saint James’ emerged from Becker’s transformative trip to Spain in 2019, a journey marked by introspection and spiritual searching. The name of the song pays homage to the streets of Santiago de Compostela, known as the final destination of the historic Way of St James Pilgrimage.
A Spiritual Awakening
Becker recounts his experience in Santiago de Compostela, where he felt a profound connection to the apostle Saint James:
“I was so inspired just walking down the ancient streets and beholding the great cathedral of the apostle, Saint James the Greater. In the most extraordinary way, I felt that James himself was there with me. I opened my mouth and began singing in a street near the great cathedral, and I had the first melodic line and lyric of what would lead to the whole Second Mansions album.”
Music Video and Visuals
The vibrant pop-rock sound of ‘Saint James’ is beautifully complemented by its music video. Featuring dynamic clips of Becker performing in the studio, the video also includes scenes of his time in Santiago de Compostela, hazy images of St James, and nostalgic family photographs. This visual storytelling enhances the catchy sound and lyrical narrative of Becker’s spiritual journey.
Conclusion
With ‘Saint James’, Le Concorde not only delivers an enchanting musical experience but also invites listeners to embark on a journey of self-discovery and reflection. The blend of 80s influences and contemporary pop sensibilities marks a significant step forward for Becker as he prepares to unveil his upcoming album, ‘Second Mansions’.
FAQs
What is Le Concorde’s music genre?
Le Concorde’s music is often described as “sophisti-pop,” blending sophisticated elements with catchy pop melodies.
Who are the featured musicians on ‘Saint James’?
The track features contributions from Roger Manning Jr., Lewis Gordon, Ross McFarlane, Jon Auer, and Ken Stringfellow.
What inspired the song ‘Saint James’?
The song was inspired by Stephen Becker’s spiritual journey during his trip to Santiago de Compostela in 2019.
Where can I watch the music video for ‘Saint James’?
The music video for ‘Saint James’ is available online and can be found on various platforms, including Le Concorde’s official website and social media channels.
