Profile: James Blackshaw

James Blackshaw “Transient Life in Twilight”

Hails From: London, England
Latest Release: “O True Believers” (Important)
Weapon of Choice: 12-string guitar
Web: jamesblackshaw.com
Tours in a: zigzag-type direction across the great plains of America

A composer of meandering, lulling melodies reminiscent of early Americana folk guitar. Blackshaw’s harmonies possess something else, his English heritage lends a natural reverb and airy overtones to his music. A fusion between European renaissance folk and American folk. Most of his work is based on 12-string guitar compositions but on “O True Believers,” his most recent release, he utilizes cymbala, tamboura, harmonium, and percussion as well. The complex instrumental pieces are a fare best served alone, taken in, and meditated upon.