UK Songwriter James Crowley makes a statement of intent with his new single “Play To Win”. Known for his intricate guitar work and emotive vocals, Crowley delivers a track that feels both intimate and expansive. His collaboration with producer Mike Horner (Def Havana, HotWax, Hot Chip, Franz Ferdinand) has added a new dimension to his sound, adding production layers and a warmth to the track that elevates his songwriting. Speaking on the new single he explains that ““Often, we’re our own harshest critic. I know that’s true for me. I wanted to try to make peace with the standards I set myself as a man, as a human. Play to Win was a space for me to think about how I meet myself with more compassion and really sit in the discomfort of my own expectations. Working with Mike (Horner- Def Havana, Hot Wax, Hot Chip, Franz Ferdinand) was transformative for my sound as an artist. He found the points of tension in the song and really took me into a territory I didn’t know existed for me musically. The whole process has been a kind of exhale; and it’s helped me let go of some of my anxieties around showing up fully as an artist.” – James Crowley
Drawing inspiration from artists like Bon Iver and Nick Drake, Crowley’s music is characterized by its delicate melodies and introspective lyrics. “Play To Win” seamlessly blends lush guitar textures with Crowley’s soulful voice, creating an immersive listening experience reminiscent of a tranquil summer evening. The track marks an evolution in the London artists sound, exploring a more polished approach with synth layers and production techniques.
