James’s style, whilst very much his own, follows in the creative footsteps of contemporary singer-songwriters such as Ben Harper, Jason Mraz, and John Mayer and classic artists like Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, Neil Young and Sting.

The album was produced by Brian McCook, described as one of the UK’s best drummers, whose remarkable talent has seen him work with a vast array of global artists including James Blunt and David Gray. Brian is co-owner of Jackaroo Records, alongside James Keen.

"No Coincidence" features 16 performers across the tracks, providing additional colours to the overall sound, including percussionist Kofi Karikari (Jamiroquai) and string quartet Eclipse Strings (Gorillaz, McFly). Recorded in London and mastered at the world-famous Abbey Road Studios, the album is the result of James and Brian’s creative partnership.

At a time when the record industry is facing plummeting sales, perhaps an album that offers something consistently rich, interesting, different and entertaining, will show that there is still a market for wanting to own such a collection, and take the whole journey. The album has already proven to appeal to the broadest range of people, both domestic and international, so the potential is unlimited…

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"His major league potential is undeniable" Logo Magazine

"A sparkling example of contemporary music, 'No Coincidence' isn't just a good album - it's bloody brilliant!! Stunning in every aspect, it's an absolute gem of an album and fully deserves massive success"

JAMES KEEN is a singer/songwriter who uses varying musical styles combined with poetic lyricism and dynamic vocals to create a fresh, compelling and distinctive sound.

Whilst keeping the overall sound consistent and commercial, James takes his audience on a journey, fusing together folk-rock, pop, blues, funk, jazz and country with occasional R&B, hip-hop/soul, Latin and African-flavored rhythms. His lyrics similarly address a wide range of themes. James has performed widely in the UK, the United States and South Africa.

James's recent partnership with veteran session drummer and producer Brian McCook has led to a perfect harmony of musical aspiration. Complementing each other from different musical backgrounds and perspectives, they have created a timeless and yet contemporary sound. Brian (aka "Cookie") has recorded and toured with a range of international artists, both in Europe and the US.

While James Keen has his own distinct sound, it is in the same vein as a number of leading contemporary, creative artists such as Ben Harper, Jason Mars, Ryan Adams, John Mayer and Dave Matthews. More classic influences would include Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, James Taylor and Sting.

His exciting new album “No Coincidence”, featuring 12 songs written by James and produced by Brian, was released in November 2007 to great acclaim.

"More polished than a Royal Marine’s favorite boots and more sophisticated than a poodle with a cigarette holder, James Keen has put together an album of carefully crafted, slickly produced mature pop music. A host of highly accomplished musicians have rallied round the London-based singer songwriter on ‘No Coincidence’ to produce 12 tracks that effortlessly draw on blues, soul, folk, country and rock to breathe life into more than a few canny melodies. It’s just one new idea after another and there’s more variety than the pick ‘n’ mix counter at Woolies. What unites it all, though, is the strength of the melodies. An incredibly well rounded and surprising collection. Genres, who needs them? Come in David Gray, your time is up."
Overplay

"A good pop record will draw inspiration from a plethora of sources, so No Coincidence is built on solid foundations with an entire spectrum of styles and artists supplying the influences. The sound takes on jazzy-pop and country-soul pathways with plenty of the generically labeled (but certainly not generic-sounding) pop. If you are a fan of any of these influences, you'll certainly enjoy James Keen. An all-round winner."
The Mag

"An incredibly slick and well-packaged album, with all the professionalism of a fully-signed artist, No Coincidence is a complete melting pot of James’s influences. The myriad of musicians on this record leads to a truly eclectic sound, helping to keep the album sound fresh with each listen. The highlight is the simple but highly infectious “Nevertheless” which will be stuck in my head for days to come. Overall, a great and varied debut."
music-news.com

"With music that crosses and blurs musical genre James Keen offers something for everyone. Superb songs, stunning musicianship and a beautifully rounded and well proportioned voice that can adapt to any rhythmic and/or genre nuance you could imagine. Comparisons are difficult but I can hear James Taylor and Tim Buckley in his delivery; a massively impressive voice and quite clearly a lyricist and composer of the highest order. This is an album I'll be listening to for ages and I don't see myself ever getting tired of it. Stunning in every aspect, it's an absolute gem of an album and fully deserves massive success. 10/10” Toxic Pete