Shayfer James Walks the Line Between Theatrical and Tender in "Summoning."

Two distinctive aspects distinguish Shayfer James’ “Summoning”: a dramatic flair in the songwriting and piano-laden sound. The crooner’s latest album comes off as a nuanced collection of records, each with singular rhythms and composition styles. Dispensing with any commercial and formulaic mindset, Shayfer commands an impressive musical versatility, moving between grandiose showmanship and solemn introspection at will. Rather than leading with a particular tonality, the album delves heavily into details and emotional shifts. Nevertheless, its evocative nature will

prompt listeners to reflect on the artistry and ingenuity condensed within the span of LP’s duration.

A Musical Curtain Rises

The opening act is “Imagine That” — the tune initiates with a light, almost intrigued note before evolving into more chipper and perhaps even theatrical. There’s a big band era Jazz flamboyancy to it as the vocals undulate with a lively cadence, almost belying the morose lyricism (“Alone in my throne//What a coward king I’ve become"). It’s whimsy, yet thoroughly self-aware. This dynamic contrast glues the performance, a riveting experience for the listeners.

Dancing Through Doubt

“One Foot in the Grave” sustains the jovial orchestration from prior— the beat is appealingly ostentatious with snazzy trumpets, and the piano rippling over the steady gait of a colorful ensemble. The lyrics, yet again, are a different story: the troubadour wistfully sings about near-endings and hanging on moral precipices, albeit never getting overwhelmed by the uptempo cadence. The crescendo is marked by the words “Love wins,” an impactful if not unexpected moment for this track.

“The Moral” has the makings of an easy-listening record, as the piano remains prominent and yearning vocals ("Come as you are and come as you please” repeats like a request rather than a demand). There are no major tonality transitions, rather a gradual pacing echoing the patience embedded in the lyrics.

The temper flips over with “Make A Wish” as the tune opens with strutting, classic pop-rock arrangements, and the lyrics are twisted with contradictions: “My mama said I was for something big” is almost immediately undercut by the spiteful and despicable reality instead. The chorus is wholly charming, and the vocal hook drives the segment with panache.

When the Noise Fades

Withdrawn and grounded, “Headed Home” remains sincere and straightforward, muffled claps sustaining the groove with minimal involvement of any instruments. The chorus is uplifting as a lofty vocal choir elevates with harmonies, a reprieve after the verses confess to lonesome days. Leaning into a vintage tone, “Lighthouse Keeper” marches with a renewed vigor, and the vocals are a rendition filled with gusto. Shayfer envisions alternative lives (traveling preacher among those), finding a newfound hope in those vibrant imaginations.

The Final Word

The LP starts winding down with the introduction of “Reverie” and “Winter Hymn,” gradual and spacious. “Reverie” is marked by words of self-realization and comfort, lush trumpets accentuating now and then, carried by gently sustained drumming. “Winter Hymn” has a timeless quality to it, adorned with sweeping strings and fluent pianoforte. Although soul-weary to the nigh extent of defeat (“I could walk into the ocean and be gone without a trace” is sung almost nonchalantly), but finds reserve willpower to continue with a premeditated cautiousness (“But I think I’ll stick around”).

“Summoning” is a multi-faceted project— it’s packed with both majestic, attention-grabbing acts and riveting narrations. The element of contrast is omnipresent (yet not overwhelmingly), and much like life, it’s an eventful and complex ride full of ups and downs, containing layers of intricacies. Shayfer James presents this in an authentic nuance, ultimately resulting in this varied endeavor.

Listen to “Summoning” on Spotify, and follow Shayfer James on his website and Instagram.