Jamie Miller
This is Miller’s second album, a mix of harmonies, grooves and melodies that stand together beautifully. James’ palette touches on roots, pop, soul, jazz and world beat and his vocals are reminiscent of his influences: Seal, Jackson Browne, Feist, Sarah McLaughlin, Bruce Cockburn, Joni Mitchell and Bebel Gilberto. The opening line of this album, “Do you wanna feel better?” captures the optimism of songs inspired by Miller’s travels on five continents.
“‘Endless Open Sky’ is the title that came to me late into the recording.” He adds. “I’ve had beautiful experiences up high in the Himalayas in India, Nepal and Tibet. The stillness, silence and vast blue sky have always blown me away. I named the album after those moments.” Songs of love, adventure, unity, rebellion and the mysteries of life take listeners on a compelling journey through Miller’s reflections. Produced by David Matheson of Moxy Fruvous, CBC and Ron Sexsmith fame, James’ songs, vocals, guitar playing and harmonies join seamlessly with Matheson’s colourful and seasoned bass, keyboards, percussion, and electric guitar playing. “David moves effortlessly through many instruments and styles. Working together proved very easy as we are old friends and on a certain level, we had very few limitations. We always tried to serve the songs.”
MILLER SELLS OUT THEATRE AURORA January 26th 2010
Theatre V.P. Stewart McLaren recalls, “James’ show was sold right out. He does a great job with his concerts and fulfills all the contract specifications. He brought loads of new people to us.” Miller’s travels have also inspired him to raise awareness and funds for the Stephen Lewis Foundation’s efforts to ease the pain of HIV/AIDS in Africa. He is creator and co-coordinator of the successful “Voices for Africa” elementary school choir concerts in Newmarket. “We have raised over $100 000 in just five years, and 1500 school children have performed. It’s a fundraising success and a small victory for global awareness in our local youth.”
Recipient of two FACTOR awards for Canadian Talent and a veteran of the Hillside, Philadelphia and Spadina Music Festivals, as well as numerous local television and print media appearances, Miller continues engaging new listeners. Of Miller’s debut album, Chart Magazine editor Karen Pace wrote, “This is a professional album of a calibre and quality that is indeed rare for a Canadian independent artist. Excellent arrangements and a mature sound augment James Miller’s song-writing and great vocals… an inspiring album wonderfully produced by David Matheson.” Of his performances, T.O. Nite wrote, “Talk about well kept secrets! Provocative soul-searching, spirit-seeking original tunes deserve a much wider audience. His playing is immaculate and his voice clear and rich on tunes that I’d describe as groove-folk. Very uplifting. See him soon.”
