Brendan James

Overview

Simplify represents me finding a clarity I have been searching for for years, says critically acclaimed piano-based singer-songwriter BRENDAN JAMES of his new album Simplify. His fifth album, it is also his most elegant and emotionally direct album to date. An active supporter for all levels of equality (he has spoken out for Marriage Equality and is considered a "Straight Ally") and a supporter for the men and women in the military (he's performed for the USO and troops), his advocacy is well-known and widespread. Larry Flick, influential host of Sirius XM's OUTQ, says of James, "The remarkable thing about Brendan is that he is an active, creative citizen of the world. His songs do more than reflect his experiences in typical singer/songwriter style. He weaves his views and stories into a musical framework that triggers empathy from a wide array of listeners. He's proof that, in the right hands, music can truly be universal." James is a man who sings with conviction and isn't afraid to speak out, as is evidenced on his new album, Simplify. For example, the plaintive ballad "The New Plan" tackles our violence-obsessed culture unflinchingly. "It's no secret that this country has an unhealthy obsessions with guns," he explains. "I wrote this song as a conversation piece, begging for an end to violence for the sake of violence. It's in our culture, and it's starting to 'backfire'. We're beginning to look ridiculous on the world stage, and I care enough to address it. Very few civilians I know NEED guns. They simply choose to have them around."