Fans of the iconic band James have offered universal praise following their recent appearance on BBC Radio 2's Piano Room, where they delivered a special three-track set accompanied by a live orchestra. The performance, which aired on Wednesday, featured the group's signature anthemic sound enhanced by the BBC's resident concert orchestra, creating a memorable musical event for listeners.
A Stripped-Back Orchestral Setlist
The Manchester-formed band, fronted by singer Tim Booth and known for their 1990 hit Sit Down, treated audiences to beautifully arranged versions of three songs. The set included a stripped-back rendition of their 1997 single She's A Star, their recent release Hallelujah Now, and a pitch-perfect cover of Lou Reed's classic Perfect Day. Each track was adorned with the Piano Room's signature orchestral flourishes, adding depth and emotional resonance to the performance.
Vocal Collaboration and Fan Reactions
Booth, who originally formed James with guitarists Paul Gilbertson and Jim Glennie in 1982, shared vocal duties with Chloë Alper, a band-member since 2018. Fans quickly took to social media to credit both singers for delivering what they described as beautiful and stunning interpretations of the chosen songs.
On Instagram, one impressed viewer wrote: 'Perfect day actually was better than Lou Reed's version, dare I say it.' Another added: 'You guys had me in tears today! Such a powerful performance!! Thank you.' A third fan expressed a desire for more, sharing: 'Would be great to let them do more than three songs. James have so many incredible songs that are amazing with an orchestra.'
The emotional impact was evident, with one listener revealing: 'My mum and I saw you at the Brighton Dome a couple of years ago. She has since passed, but this song always reminds me of her. I was sobbing this morning. Thank you.' Another described experiencing 'Goosebumps and escapism while I create pottery.'
Special Praise for Chloë Alper
There was also notable acclaim directed at Chloë Alper, who joined James as a backing vocalist and percussionist following a lengthy career with bands including punk rockers Period Pains and Pure Reason Revolution. Commenting on her contribution, one viewer noted: 'I never thought James could get any better…until they added @chloealper and it seemed like she should have been there all along.' A second added: 'Wow Chloe, different class, you have done amazing…'
Birthday Celebrations and Emotional Depth
The performance held extra significance as it coincided with Tim Booth's 66th birthday. Booth had previously confirmed the band's participation, telling the BBC: 'Whenever our songs are orchestrated, it deepens the emotional impact. So we are looking forward to another fresh orchestral collaboration in the Piano Room - on my birthday. Expect fireworks and a cake!'
Recent Chart Success
This orchestral appearance comes on the heels of a significant milestone for James. Their 2024 release Yummy recently became their first studio album to hit the top of the charts, an achievement arriving some 42 years into the band's career. Previously, their only number one was the 1998 Best Of compilation, with the latest release outperforming competitors like Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter.
Reflecting on the celebration, Booth told Chris Evans' Virgin Radio Show: 'I drink once every two years and went out with them and had three margaritas. I was surprisingly able to walk home afterwards, which was good!'
The Piano Room session has undoubtedly reinforced James' enduring appeal and their ability to innovate within their musical repertoire, earning them renewed admiration from both long-time followers and new listeners alike.
