Folktronica, mellow acoustics, fuzzy electric guitars— the new track “cool headed mountain lions” from London-based independent singer, songwriter, and producer Thoran James has it all. A self-dubbed “hobby musician,” James’ production on the new song has a sophistication and sheen that goes well beyond mere hobby.
“cool headed mountain lions” is the first new track of four in Thoran James’ new cycle in which he is releasing a new song every month. Somewhat of a stylistic pivot, James is adding elements of indie rock into his already established arsenal of acoustic folk melodies with hints of pop. Everything that James does is self-recorded in his own bedroom studio, crafting a sound meticulously until he achieves exactly what he wants.
Brooding over first-world guilt and modern human relationships, the song structure really is like a mountain in the way that it builds on itself. Starting soft, with just acoustic guitar and unfiltered vocals, the track slowly adds in more elements until it breaks into a feverish convulsion of electric guitars, electronics, and straight up noise. Ending where it began, James repeats the opening lines softly, reminiscing on how easy it is to live in your head.
