Shayfer James is of the mindset that songs are stories; small capsules in time that capture the imagination with carefully painted images and quirkycharacters. His folk and pop infused music is reminiscent of influences from Aaron Copland to Johnny Cash. From the first smokey phrase and stinging piano progression, you will find yourself transported to a dark, dusty attic where truth is simultaneously hidden and preserved.
Mr. James is currently recording his first EP entitled ‘The Red Room’.This raw, satirical, and witty collection of songs beautifully illustratesShayfer’s mastery of melody and performance. His lyrics often flirt with riddle, and tell of epic love and evil deeds. In support of the fall re-lease, Shayfer will be performing at northeast region venues that boast acoustic pianos and atmosphere that illuminates his vision. Shayfer began performing on stage at the age of nine. His fascination with all things noir and the art of cabaret naturally attracted him to thepiano, which he describes as “an unforgiving beast one moment and a seduc-tive woman the next”. In person, Mr. James can be likened to a Cheshire Cat. Enigmatic and often inappropriate, Shayfer never fails to guide con-versation and situation down unpredictable and interesting paths. Along-side him on each of those long walks will always be his adoring wife Lucy.Lucy is no less a character than Shayfer. Their moods and hi-jinks are unpredictable and their connection is steadfast. Lucy is Shayfer’s muse,photographer, and more often than not, the translator for his methodicallyesoteric ramblings. The stories behind songs like None of Thee Above, Every Fallen Feather, Room by Room, and Godspeed are intense and fascinating but Shayfer has asked that others refrain from offering any subject matter prior to lis-tening. “Let everyone write their own story while they listen”.
