4. Kings & Queens by Jamie T (2009) - thoughts on albums I haven't heard

When it comes to comebacks, Jamie T’s recent one has been one of the most hyped in recent years. This is natural seeing as the songwriter hasn’t released any new material in five years. Those who were lucky enough to see his secret set at Reading and Leeds Festival will know that the man is an exceptional talent thanks to his lyrical prowess and quirky rap delivery. However, I was unfortunate as I wasn’t able to catch this secret set, so I thought I’d review his last album instead.

I’ll admit, I’m no Jamie T expert but I’ve heard enough bits and pieces to know what he’s mostly all about. Like most people, I’ve heard “Sticks ‘n’ Stones” in an Inbetweeners episode or two. Not only that, but the irresistible gem that is “Shelia” has cropped up a few times in my music listening lifetime. Said song seems to be a real crowd pleaser that the masses really adore. 

With this previous Jamie T knowledge, I approached 2009’s “Kings & Queens” with reasonably high expectations. Opener “368” isn’t exactly the kind of song that would set the world on fire; it is, however, memorable enough to be very enjoyable. 

From here on in though, all the pleasure spots in your brain will be hit as Jamie T delivers delight after delight. “The Man’s Machine” is as anthemic as you like with its “stone, grass, concrete and gravel” chorus part. The ballad “Emily’s Heart” is also fantastic due to the lyrics and the beautifully fingerpicked guitar melodies.


One of the most impressive things about Jamie T on this album though, is the way in which he observes life through his lyrics. “Chaka Demus”, “Jily Armeen” and “Spider’s Web” are all examples of this, as the singer/rapper appears to be mentioning various experiences and characters. You could spend ages analyzing and looking at these lyrics and you’d still be intrigued as when you first heard them. 

“Kings & Queens” is one hell of a record and I can’t believe I didn’t get into Jamie T sooner. He’s been round since the mid noughties so I’ve missed out on several years worth of valuable Jamie T listening time! Roll on September 29^th though, because that’s when his new album will be coming out. As a new fan, I will definitely be getting his next album. Here’s to making up for lost time then (hip hip hooray etc). But anyway, “Kings & Queens” is an album that is full of lyrical talent and quality.

OVERALL RATING: 8/10 

BEST SONGS: THE MAN'S MACHINE, EMILY'S HEART, SPIDER'S WEB.