Award-nominated film composer and multi-instrumentalist James Colton (aka. Andrew Bartlett) is known for his genre-hopping creativity and masterful arrangements, blending nostalgic influences with modern production in his latest single, Clockwork Love, a love song that is as intricate as it is heartfelt – out on 14 March.
“This one has a few sections to it,” Colton explains. “There’s some late nineties Air, some mid-noughties Beck, and a bridge inspired by eighties Bowie. The second section in particular has a lot of intertwining and overlapping vocal layers, some spacey synth parts, lo-fi drums, some wind chimes and a glockenspiel.”
“It was a fun production. As David Bowie once said, ‘You fall in love, you write a love song.’ This is a love song.’”
Primarily electronic in its foundation, Clockwork Love also incorporates organic elements such as saxophone and percussion, creating a sonic tapestry that evolves from a melancholic opening into an uplifting crescendo. The track builds layer by layer, adding harmonised vocals, bass, and drum loops before culminating in a climactic finale enriched with a brass section and shimmering wind chimes.
Colton’s background as a film composer (2023 WA Screen Culture Awards nominee), studio engineer, and musician (previously in a symphony orchestra and rock bands such as Michael Strong and The Ghost Away, The Autumn Isles, The Disappointed, currently in Deep Beep, and recently appearing Dom Mariani’s band on the keyboard for an art project collaboration, Baggage Handler) not only showcases his diversity and ability as an artist but in some ways has shaped his distinctive approach to music.
His solo work, years in the making, is a testament to his meticulous craftsmanship and deep appreciation for melody and atmosphere. With an LP, Emotional Vampire, on the near horizon, Clockwork Love marks an exciting chapter in James Colton’s solo career, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in its rich, emotive soundscape.
James Colton’s Clockwork Love is out now via Blue Grey Pink.
