Stop what you are doing and check out this amazing release if you haven’t already. James Parkinson, also known as One Cure for Man, has not only lived up to the hype created by his stunning single releases toward this one. He has far exceeded it.

“We All Pretend” is the latest EP from this incredibly gifted, one-man powerhouse of talent. The UK-based musician, who famously demonstrated mastery over multiple instruments, also has a unique skill for song writing. He is an artist that never stops making us think as we listen to his beautifully powerful words. Every single track he creates holds a special message. And this amazing EP is no exception.

It opens with “The Now,” and Parkinson could not possibly have chosen a more perfect opening track. This one is the second single from this EP which landed only a few short months ago, but has already cemented its way into history. Telling us to stop and appreciate this moment, here, and now, it ideally sets the tone and pace for the rest of the album.

Next up is “Into the Deep,” and let me tell you, if you don’t have a strong emotional reaction to this one, then you need serious help! The music and lyrics spring forth like a waterfall of feelings, conjuring up imagery of the profound chaos that is true sadness and joy.

Following is “The World in Autumn Sun,” a slight change of pace but no less thought-provoking or emotive. Parkinson’s stellar gift for getting inside our heads and telling us what we didn’t already know we were thinking, and feeling is on full display here. The glory of nature, the sun, and of course, autumn are presented with his lovely lyrics. And that’s not a mandolin, believe it or not. It’s Parkinson on his 12-string guitar!

Then he hits us with “Hard to Feel (Memories),” an absolutely soaring masterpiece that will hit you right where you live. Confronting and beautiful, it reminds us that everything we experience is precious, even that which has hurt us. Because it all helped shape us into who we are today.

“On the Edge” is next, the amazing first single. Speaking to the harsher side of success, reminding us that tragedy exists everywhere. Not to be fooled by appearances and that suffering can take many forms.

Finally closing with “We All,” Parkinson brings us home with a track that feels like, not the end of an incredible journey as most artists would use of sign off an EP. No. Rather, this feels like only the beginning, yet ties the rest of the album together in such a gloriously fitting and delicately profound way.

This is an EP that genuinely needs to be heard to be believed. Every track is so lovingly crafted, you can feel the depth and emotion in each piece. The lyrics and music are a perfect pairing on every single song and the entire album just flows with seemingly effortless muse.

Get your copy today on all streaming platforms and limited CD release! We All Pretend | One Cure For Man (bandcamp.com)

Author: Harley Houghton

Harley Houghton is a writer and blogger, based in Melbourne, Australia. Her passions include music, especially metal, gaming and comics. Check out her blog www.harleysmadhouse.com and follow her on Twitter.