Starsailor frontman James Walsh releases his new solo album, It’s All Happening, this Friday, 30 January, continuing the steady growth of his solo career alongside Starsailor.
Walsh first came to prominence in the early 2000s as the voice of Starsailor, who enjoyed rapid success on the back of a string of hit singles. Their Platinum-certified debut became one of the most successful British albums of its moment, leading to an NME Award, support slots with The Rolling Stones, and a brief period recording with Phil Spector. His solo releases, by contrast, have tended to favour a smaller scale, trading the band’s broader dynamics for something more personal and self-contained.
That approach runs through It’s All Happening. The album leans into the kind of emotionally open songwriting on which Walsh built his reputation, with a stripped-back sound that brings its feelings into much sharper focus. The tracks move between different sources of inspiration – personal experience, photography, places and current affairs – yet remain grounded in everyday moments, providing a familiar point of connection for listeners.
Entirely written, produced and performed in his home studio, the album allowed Walsh to record whenever inspiration struck, follow ideas through without distraction, and shape each track exactly as he wanted.
With the album out tomorrow, CinemaChords spoke to Walsh about its creation, his current approach to lyrics, and the ways perspective shifts over time. He also reflects on the contrast between writing as a young artist and writing now, drawing on the stories, histories and moments that continue to shape his work and provide a framework for understanding both himself and the world around him.
CD and vinyl formats will be released via Green Cookie Records. There is also an illustrated songbook with lyrics and the stories behind the songs, which includes an album download.
Live performance is a central part of James Walsh’s solo work. He already has the following dates confirmed, with more to be announced. Tickets are available HERE.
FEBRUARY
1st – London, LVLS
7th – Oldham, Shure Studios
28th – Winchester, The Railway
MARCH
15th – Lincoln, Jolly Brewer
28th – Winchester, The Railway
APRIL
18th – Frome, The Tree House
JUNE
3rd – Cheshire, Britfest
JULY
25th – Devon, Altitude Festival
AUGUST
28th–30th – Portsmouth, Victorious Festival
