Single reviewsThe Other Side Reviews

James Spencer – Your Ship’s Coming In (2023)

With a prowess for captivating stories woven into moving melodies, James Spencer is an artist to enchant, intoxicate and keep you coming back for me. I was only introduced to Spencer a few months ago; however, the UK-based singer-songwriter has been making waves on the music scene for several years. When we left Spencer, he was singing to those dealing with the detrimental mental health consequences of the pandemic in the emotionally charged ‘My Hand & My Heart‘. He continues this exposition of life in his new single, ‘Your Ship’s Coming In’.

Following his well-received single ‘Black Dog’, Spencer shifts from the energetic gypsy folk to folk-rock meets punk with Celtic influences. Listening to James Spencer’s music is not a listening experience but needs to be felt. When encountering ‘Black Dog’, I felt as if I was hearing a dark fairytale with a light-hearted kicker; however, ‘Your Ship’s Coming In’ is contrary to that feeling. Some darkness lurks in the banjo with a sliver of fiddle giving a cheeky grin. Add Spencer’s rugged punk vocals and there’s a sound leaning between hard-hitting and hip-swaying folksy glory.

As I mentioned, James Spencer is a natural storyteller, be it poignant tales of depressed minds or high-energy stories of optimism and hope. Performed alongside his brother David, ‘Your Ship’s Coming In’ taps into what it says on the tin: a ship coming in. Positive, jovial and bright-eyed, the toe-tapping tune lifts your spirits while the lads hold your hand to celebrate success. Inspired by a saying his grandfather would say to his father, “One day you’ll make it, one day your riches will arrive”.

“Written about working hard and chasing your dreams, the song has an upbeat message that I feel can appeal to a broad audience.” – James Spencer on ‘Your Ship’s Coming In’


In addition to the single, James Spencer released an official music video for ‘Your Ship’s Come In’. You can view the video below or via his YouTube channel. Please note that this video uses effects that can trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.



Find out more about James Spencer on his official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.

This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator


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