This album marked a breakthrough with the hit single 'Sit Down', blending britpop and alternative rock.
Artist page · 07/07/2026
James
About
James, Manchester's alternative rock since 1982, merging pop and britpop touches.
6 vinyl albums including 'Gold Mother' and 'Laid', with enduring appeal among collectors.
The English band James started playing in local clubs in 1983, with early EPs like 'Jimone' and 'James II'. The 1990 album 'Gold Mother' gained recognition thanks to the single 'Sit Down', boosting their profile in the alternative rock and britpop scenes. Variations in membership refined their sound, including contributions from producer Brian Eno on the albums 'Laid' (1993) and the experimental 'Wah Wah' (1994). They enjoyed a resurgence with the 2008 album 'Hey Ma', blending melodic and acoustic elements. Their catalog on vinyl spans multiple eras, offering a range for collectors and audiophiles alike.
James' work showcases a progression from early indie roots to refined studio projects, with notable collaborations influencing their artistic direction and critical reception, es…
Playlist
Signature tracks
The tracks that sum up James's career.
The essentials
The 3 James albums you absolutely need
Our pick, validated by the editorial team.
Produced with Brian Eno, this album found more acclaim in the US, offering a rich alternative rock sound.
Among their key records featuring the mix of pop and alternative rock that defined their early 90s sound.
Go further
Artists similar to James
Artists who share part of James's musical DNA.
Face B
Side B: the hidden stories of James
Studio secrets, touring anecdotes and B-sides worth the whole album.
“Melodies, harmonies, and rich instrumentation characterize the 2008 album 'Hey Ma'.”— Music critic
One Man Clapping tops indie charts
The live album 'One Man Clapping', recorded after their second studio album, reached number one on indie charts, capturing the early energy of the band.
'Laid' produced by Brian Eno
In 1993, James worked with producer Brian Eno on 'Laid', which earned strong recognition in the US market despite limited attention in the UK.
'Wah Wah' collaboration with Brian Eno
The 1994 experimental album 'Wah Wah' was recorded concurrently with 'Laid', presenting a different artistic side of James.
Line-up evolution in 1985
Larry Gott replaced guitarist Paul Gilbertson in 1985, helping shape the band's evolving sound.
Records by James
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CDs by James
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FAQ
FAQ: James on physical formats
The most common questions about pressings, reissues and limited editions.
What genre does James belong to?
James is primarily an alternative rock band with strong britpop and pop influences.
When was the band James formed?
James formed in Manchester, England in 1982.
Which James album features the hit single 'Sit Down'?
The album 'Gold Mother' released in 1990 features the song 'Sit Down'.
Are there any vinyl reissues of James albums?
Several James albums have been reissued on vinyl including 'Gold Mother' and 'Laid', available in different editions and remasters.
What are popular James tracks to look for on vinyl?
Popular James tracks include 'Laid', 'Sit Down', and 'She's a Star', often sought by collectors.
Where can I find James vinyl records in France?
Vinyl records by James are available from various music retailers and online platforms serving the French market.
How does recording location affect James vinyl sound?
James recorded primarily in Manchester studios, with production quality varying by album and producer, affecting sound texture on vinyl.
Which album marked James' collaboration with Brian Eno?
The album 'Laid' (1993) was produced with Brian Eno and is notable for its distinctive atmosphere.
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Sources & method
This page is compiled by the vinyles.com editorial team from public sources and our marketplace.
Our method
- Discographic data from MusicBrainz (dates, countries, activity period).
- Tracklists, artwork and genres retrieved via Discogs Masters.
- Values (low / median / high) and stock from the Discogs Marketplace.
- Audience and similar artists via Last.fm.
- Page updated automatically and reviewed by the editorial team.


