Review
James Arthur's sixth studio album 'PISCES' dives headfirst into an emotional whirlpool that really showcases the guy's talent for blending vulnerability with strength. Released in April 2025, this collection teams him up again with producer Steven Solomon, who helped craft that signature sound we heard on 'Bitter Sweet Love' last year. The instrumentation shifts beautifully between gentle, atmospheric moments and these massive, arena-ready swells that grab you by the collar. I'm particularly struck by how the album reflects those classic Pisces traits – there's an incredible sensitivity and emotional intelligence running through every track.
The album kicks off with 'Summer,' setting up this journey through Arthur's inner struggles with its distorted, reflective vibe. 'ADHD' really stood out to me with its dreamy piano work against those upbeat rhythms, while 'Celebrate' takes this fascinating approach to anxiety with its darkly ironic chant. At a tight 39 minutes across 12 tracks, Arthur balances self-criticism with this powerful message of acceptance – just listen to 'Water' with its "I rise and I fall" refrain that just captures the whole human experience thing perfectly. Songs like 'All My Love' show his romantic side without getting sappy. This album really feels like Arthur's most honest work yet, diving into personal struggles while somehow making it relatable for anyone who's ever wrestled with their own emotions. - Preston
