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Review: I Just Don't Know (song & video - new release) by James Roan

Although the emergence of trap as the dominant movement in hip-hop has seen a huge wave of creativity and innovation, it has also allowed a lot of stagnation and regression too. Part of that comes from the lack of sonic diversity, and part of it comes from the similarity in subject matter. So it's hugely refreshing to hear an artist like James Roan who has produced an excellent new video to go with his track I Just Don't Know, taken from the album Enter • End. James Roan not only gives us a smooth, catchy, jazz influenced production, but also provides an introspective lyricism and fragile delivery that acts as a rewarding counterbalance to the shallow bragging that has become the default in modern trap. The video is an intriguing and stylish piece of work that produces a different narrative around the lyrics, and it's minimalist approach offers an unexpected new depth to the theme.

I Just Don't Know is based around a funky and soulful production courtesy of the up-and-coming Jordeaux. It's full of warbling keyboard notes and psychedelic synth passages over an intricate trap beat. It feels superbly balanced, with the drums sitting nicely in the sound, distinguishable enough to be heard but not so vociferous as to take away from the atmosphere and ambience of the track. The rather emotive piano lines and sultry guitar chords remind me of a number of Mac Miller tracks and even some of Tyler, The Creator's more chilled-out moments.

There are times when purity and directness of meaning works best over flashy imagery and obscure references, and I feel this track is definitely one of those times. The lyrical delivery from James Roan is full of clarity and precision, but there is a level of emotion to his flows too, particularly in the chorus where he semi-croons in an almost defeated manner. The lyrics might not be full of wild metaphors but there are some superb rhymes throughout the song. They don't just sit at the end of every line, but weave their way through the verses and tie everything together brilliantly. 

The video for I Just Don't Know is a stripped back and slick affair, but it's a great watch and provides a different take on the theme of the song. The imagery has a slight video-game feel to it, with narrative cut-aways and some particularly patient shots around the summery sidewalks of a city. There is a very immersive and atmospheric feel to the video, and without giving anything away it has a rather mysterious element to the narrative. We're left on a cliff hanger at the end with as many new questions to ask as have been answered, and I'm hoping that this is the first in a series of videos that take this story further.

All in all James Roan has produced a brilliant musical and visual piece. The video and song pair together for a wonderful and highly enjoyable experience. It's perfect if you're looking for something that feels both rewardingly fresh and intriguingly familiar too.


Watch the video for I Just Don't Know by James Roan

Listen to Enter • End by James Roan

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