Jaymes Reunion - Jaymes Reunion EP

Producer:  Information not provided
Record Label:  BEC Recordings
Website:  myspace.com/jaymesreunion

Despite what the name suggests - Jaymes Reunion is not a solo artist - rather a four-piece rock outfit from Bakersfield, California.  Founded by front man Cameron Jaymes - the group is off to a strong start with the release of their BEC Recordings debut.  Like most new artists being distributed by EMI Christian Music Group (see Sarah Reeves, Abandon, Philmont, Danyew, The Letter Black, and Abandon Kansas), Jaymes Reunion’s introduction to the greater music scene is a six song EP.  However, unlike those other releases, Jaymes Reunion’s debut feels like a bit of a slight as the album only included three full band tracks, and three additional acoustic based songs (including an acoustic version of one of the full band tracks).  The full band tracks definitely stand out.  The debut single “Fine” is still a fantastic piece of pop music written with an easy on the ears melodic hook and memorable lyrics.  “Let It Shine” follows suit - though not quite as strong as the first cut - it’s definitely a great tune.  “I Want You Back” has a definitive 70’s pop sound without feeling dated - perhaps the sound of the Jackson 5 of The Bee Gees if they had been recording in today’s music scene.  The acoustic tracks are nice - especially “If You Wanna Cry” - an emotional pinao ballad.  However, the acoustic version of “Fine” feels unneeded.  The Jaymes Reunion EP would have definitely benefited from an inclusion of one or two more tracks - in a full band setting - to really give new listeners a taste of what’s to come from this fine band.  Jaymes Reunion EP is a nice introduction - but those who have been waiting for a full length debut since 2008 will surely be disappointed that there’s not more to this impressive debut.

Track listing:
1. Fine
2. Let It Shine
3. If You Wanna Cry (acoustic)
4. More Than a Day (acoustic)
5. Fine (acoustic)
6. I Want You Back