RATED NEXT: James Morrison

James Morrison
Interscope Records
Undiscovered
☆☆☆☆☆

Why this album was never heard by almost all of North America remains one of the great mysteries of major-label decision making. Long awaited, Undiscovered captures the melodic genius James Morrison; who invites comparisons to John Mayer and James Blunt, recording what is unequivocally from beginning to end, an undeniable profound debut album.
The emotions in these songs is as clearly visible as the green t-shirt Morrison wears on the album cover.
“I’ve been twisting and turning in a space that’s too small” a forlorn James Morrison sings on the track from his debut album. “Well I can’t explain why it’s not enough” The stripped-bare, acoustic song sets the tone for an album in which an emotionally naked Morrison packs bizarre metaphors.

James Morrison has “success story” written all over him, the British singer-songwriter went on to sell over 3 million copies of his debut, and gained the first Platinum Europe Award. The hit single was the ‘harsh love song’ “You Give Me Something,” but there’s impressive variety here: contemplative ballads (“Pieces Don’t Fit Anymore“), impressionistic epics (“The Last Goodbye”) and a great paean (“Better Man”), written in style that resembles Stevie Wonder – and that is what makes the album unforgettable.

James Morrison sounds like a star, not an aspirant ready for their money shot.