Phatt James is a local alternative band tearing up the scene nearby Bridgeport. They masterfully bring up bands like 3 Doors Down and Pearl Jam with their music. The album was released back in May 2023, but is a timeless batch of anthems and is mixed wonderfully. The band consists of guitar, bass, drums, and vocals only but the arrangements bring a lot to love. Interesting key changes and great harmonies fill this record and keep the listener enthralled.

The album starts with a peaceful guitar intro before diving right in. The first complete song is titled “Ahead of Line” and it covers tons of ground already. The lyrics have tons of relatable moments, “If we waited all our lives, would you understand? What I’m after, what I did? I won’t ever be so young again.”

“Wide Eyes” starts with a very cool guitar riff, quickly followed by fantastically layered vocals. The drums, bass, and everything else are fantastically tight and well structured, every note right on its beat. Musically, the band creates a fantastic ground level for the vocals to shine through, with each song having its own moments of abstraction. This project gives feelings of peacefulness, without straying too far from the energetic rock-n-roll which keeps us listening. This group fits in perfectly with any bigger alternative rock band, the music speaks for itself.

“Quick to Notice” reminds me instantly of “Today” by the Smashing Pumpkins. It is a bit cleaner instrumentally, but melodically is right on point. Lovely bends of a slide guitar really continue that peaceful feeling, with soft whisper like vocals wonderfully moving through each stanza effortlessly. The lyrics are emotional, “My own momentum, has words against me, and I have proved conversely with some time, it’s just as empowering.”

As usual, I will leave the rest of the album for the listener! But I highly recommend this local band, in the short time I have known them, they have proven their ability to go places.