James Hollingsworth is an incredibly talented singer/songwriter/musician who, as well as fronting rock band Jebo, thankfully manages to find the time to work the England/Wales live music circuit.

There are two things I've noticed at the James Hollingsworth gigs I've been to; generally, no-one buggers off outside to smoke (damn that ban!) and secondly, people hardly talk. True story. Everyone is too busy being awestruck by his powerful lyrics, haunting melodies and refreshing onstage chat.

At a James Hollingsworth gig no-one buggers off outside to smoKe

He has recorded several stunning albums, including ‘Alive in 2005' and ‘Coming Home to Stay' and he chose a good mixture of songs for the set, such as the chilled out ‘One Saturday' and slightly melancholic ‘Still Lights Up the Rain' as well as showcasing a new song ‘Two and Two' which was different again (more blues-y) and ‘The Same Sky' as requested by myself the first time I heard it, I was actually silent for the duration (really!) not to mention it giving me fond memories of listening to it whilst paddling in the sea sometime in October.

When describing his style, I've always compared him to Jeff Buckley he certainly has Buckley's eloquence and his emotive way of singing you know, the kind that makes you hold your breath without realising it and get goose bumps. Although, I'm NOT suggesting he is a Buckley rip-off, but their equalled originality is very much in the same vein. Incidentally, he did a cover of ‘Eternal Life' near the end of the set, which I am sure would have been a highlight for me, however I was outside tending to a sobbing girl.

Basically, in my opinion, words don't do him justice, you have to go and actually experience him for yourself. If you only see one artist this year, make sure it's him you certainly won't regret it.