Still, on the evidence provided so far, the wait could be worth it, a slow-burn feeling he evokes so well on single Hold Back The River, on which delicate, chiming electric guitar, allied to a raw, dry drumbeat, builds to a chorus that stays in the head for hours.
Elsewhere, Sparks showcases his tasteful yet slick lead guitar phrasing and penchant for funk-infused pop, and Wait In Line confirms a rare vocal ability.
• James Bay. Hold Back The River (E. P.). Republic/Universal.
• Three stars (out of five)
Single download: Hold Back The River
For those who like: Damien Rice
- Shane Gilchrist