J.J. Chamberlain revels in Christmas reality with new three-track collection, Let’s Fall Out For Christmas.
By Graeme Smith
J.J. Chamberlain is a York-based artist who has appeared on our pages a few times throughout 2024. Each of his tracks shows us something new about his sound, and his latest record is no exception.
Let’s Fall Out For Christmas sits in that genre of anti-Christmas music which aims to reflect the reality of the season. Completely DIY, it’s self-produced, with J.J. recording all the instruments and vocals, and mixing and mastering the three tracks. It sees him blending his usual alternative rock with Latin influences.
The EP’s title track gets things going with a vibrant and soaring effort that’s grounded by its anti-social lyrics. It lyrics tell the story of how sometimes time apart is the best thing for a friendship, a relatable sentiment. A meditative late track breakdown nicely sets up its big finish.
Tired of Christmas was originally recorded as a single and released last year. It’s had a rework for this EP. It slows things down for a melancholic rock ballad in which the soulfulness of the vocal shines.
Curmudgeon closes the EP. Coming to J.J. as a flash of inspiration, it was written, recorded and mastered in only a week in order to take its place on the record. It’s a case of saving the best for last, bringing with it big riffs, bittersweet vocals and plenty of oomph.
It always feels like a privilege to share music from local artists on this blog, and doubly so when they’re putting out records this good. With each new release, my love for J.J. Chamberlain’s work grows. He’s promising his debut album in 2025. I can’t wait to hear it!
Let’s Fall Out For Christmas is out now and you can give it a listen below.