Written by Kaitlyn Musgrove
London native Becca James is set to release, “If You’re Not Home,” on February 23 via AWAL. The hauntingly beautiful song marks a departure from her previous work, signaling a shift towards a more mature and poignant sound. The track, crafted out of feelings of loneliness and missing loved ones, was brought to life in collaboration with Mark Stoney, whose subtle and ambient production infused the song with layers of piano, guitar, and vocals reminiscent of the electronic ballads of Oh Wonder.
The production process involved the pair experimenting with programmed drums and found sounds, including sampling broken toys in the studio, to create a unique percussive soundscape.
The track serves as a precursor to James’s upcoming EP, “God in Chains,” which delves into the depths of societal and personal trauma. James describes the song being about love, loss, and longing, emphasizing the importance of investigating one’s inner landscape before embarking on a journey of healing with home being the foundation of self. Although started in lockdown, the song was completed only recently. James shared this was an ideal time to release as a continuation of her aim to share healing via music.
Following James’s previous releases, “If You’re Not Home” is scheduled to coincide with the full moon on February 23rd, accompanied by a music video and interview on Becca’s YouTube channel, produced in collaboration with Emma Ledwith. James will then embark on a tour making stops in Newcastle and Huddersfield, including a special event on International Women’s Day and a yoga/music fusion launch event on March 24 in Dalston.