Album Review: Hayden James – Between Us

It feels like eons ago that we first starting hearing from Sydney producer Hayden James. Surely Between Us can’t be his debut – can it? Opening shows for Disclosure and Odesza, landing himself on Splendour line-ups, ARIA noms and a string of solid releases since 2013 has garnered James a solid rep and following. So it’s about time he knuckled down in the studio to offer a comprehensive listen that is stacked with polished house gems. With Between Us, James shows he is more than the usual blockbuster anthems we have come to expect.

There are still plenty of hits though; Nowhere To Go is an instant highlight, featuring the powerhouse vocals of NAATIONS atop some cosmic beats. Weightless featuring Shungudzo and the tracks that boast Boy Matthews, Panama and Running Touch and their soulful croons are less floor-stomping and more toe-tapping; they help round out the glossy production with something a bit more earthy. Feelin’ and Remember You also bring a more down-tempo, urban feel to the record with some quirky horns, and the smoother house vibes are saved 'til the end, with Favours and Numb.