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June 22, 2008 @ 3rd & Lindsley — Joshua James
Utah-based singer/songwriter Joshua James returned to Nashville this past Sunday night (June 22, 2008) to open for emerging Alt-Country phenom Justin Townes Earle. James is a socially and politically conscious songwriter whose recent full-length record The Sun is Always Brighter is a courageous debut challenging listeners to think more critically about the world in which we find ourselves. James' return to 3rd & Lindsley was met with some trepidation (expressed in a brief conversation with this writer after the set), as his last performance at this venue was an opening slot for Sam Bush's rowdy side-project Duckbutter (read that review here). Since that time, however, James has toured relentlessly with other socially-conscious songwriters including kindred spirit Brett Dennen, which has helped James reach a more appreciative audience. To be sure, the audience on Sunday night was quiet and attentive during James' set, which consisted mostly of songs from his recent record — songs that touch on the heavy themes of loss, death, and war. He is currently touring with a full band, and at times his set channeled the energy of Neil Young and Crazy Horse as well as The White Album-era Beatles. James is remarkably passionate and genuine onstage. His lyrics are often very direct and filled with raw emotion. His songs do touch on heavy themes, and it's not uncommon to see tears streaming down faces in the audience. This night, the lump in everybody's throat occurred when James delivered a gut-wrenching song about losing a sibling to cancer that he set to Rick Nelson's seemingly happy "You are my Sunshine," eventually turning the lyrics on God in full-on "suffering psalmist" fashion by questioning in desperation, "Why did you take my sunshine away?" Indeed, Joshua James is a remarkable singer/songwriter who is quickly establishing himself as a leading voice among contemporary prophetic singer/songwriters in the tradition of Bob Dylan. —Vincent Wynne |
