Kiwi popsmith James Milne released his second solo LP, Chant Darling (Bella Union), last week. Under aptly chosen moniker Lawrence Arabia, this avant-garde grade of pop is a perfect compromise between melodrama and nonchalance. Breathing each track to life via lavish narrative, Milne’s inherent charisma, amidst catchy hooks and phrases, is lyrically divine. Recorded in Stockholm, London and Milne’s native land, Chant Darling echoes back to greats like John Lennon and Jonathan Richman, resulting in a heartfelt revival of pop’s essential core. More substantial than Milne’s stint with former acts like the Brunettes, Chant Darling is undoubtedly refined charm. Download one of the album’s best below.
“Apple Pie Bed” (download):
https://magnetmagazine.com/audio/ApplePieBed.mp3
