John Graham - Cold Sun (2015)

UK born but now US based, John Graham’s new album is set to reach these shores showcasing slick, contemporary indie-rock with electronic touches and a heap of swagger. With influences including the Stone roses, Kasabian, The Cure, Depeche mode and more, it’s an album full of ideas which is primed to make an impact. The album is something of a departure for Graham, whose previous work under the name Quivver has seen him gaining countless plaudits producing house and techno music.

However, ‘Cold Sun’ and lead single ‘Roll the Dice’ prove that there are multiple strings to this particular bow, as showcased by this superb video for the single – not suitable for those with a fear of heights, it blends off kilter performance footage with a montage of adrenaline pumping, high risk stunts. It’s a truly compelling watch married to a fantastic musical groove.

The ‘Cold Sun’ album has been in the making for many years, being written in snatched time between full time work as a house and techno DJ and producer. It’s release is the culmination of an ambition John Graham has had for many years – to create a collection of songs that don’t fit neatly into a specific genre, and demonstrate just how versatile his writing can be.

His new music does a fantastic job of proving that thanks to a brazen and assured indie rock approach that drips with attitude. It’s a long way from the jungle and house specialist who started out in the 1990s and is well established in that environment. Over the years since, John Graham (as Quivver) has picked up myriad honours and career highs. The quality of his work can be vouched for by over 45,000 online followers.

Those deals never came to pass due to circumstances beyond John Graham’s control, and it speaks volumes that such a departure in terms of genre has done nothing to dull the quality of his music.