Embarking on a musical journey sparked by the discovery of a mysterious lyricist’s notebook in a New York purchase, Jamie Morrison of Stereophonics unveiled Drewford Alabama to the world through two mesmerizing EPs in 2015. The profound connection between the discovered lyrics and the captivating EPs reveals the depth of Jamie’s artistic inspiration, shining brightly in the latest installment, “I Go To Sleep”.
The backstory adds an extra layer of beauty to this endeavor—Jamie stumbled upon a book of lyrics attributed to Drewford Alabama in the lining of a suitcase he acquired in Williamsburg, New York. The captivating project blossomed from this serendipitous encounter, and the latest installment, “I Go To Sleep”, serves as a heartfelt thank-you to those who embraced Drewford Alabama’s musical odyssey.
Unfolding as a gracious nod to the supporters who showered love on the Drewford Alabama project throughout 2015, “I Go To Sleep” showcases Jamie Morrison’s heartfelt gratitude. Having previously enchanted audiences with EPs like ‘Time Is On Your Side’, Jamie’s musical alter ego garnered widespread acclaim, earning airplay on Radio 1, Radio 2, BBC London, and securing a spot on XFM’s coveted playlists.
The choice of the classic track “I Go To Sleep”, originally by Ray Davis of The Kinks and later popularized by The Pretenders, serves as a poignant tribute. As Jamie reached the final pages of Drewford Alabama’s notebook, encountering the line “Now I go to sleep”, he felt a poetic resonance and a vivid recollection of the song, a tune he first encountered while playing with Sia in 2002.
The collaborative effort on this rendition is nothing short of stellar, featuring guest artists like The Lost Brothers, Tom Monger (harpist for Florence and the Machine), and Drew McConnell (associated with Helsinki and Babyshambles). Seeking a fresh perspective on the track that Chrissie Hynde immortalized, Jamie’s collaboration with The Lost Brothers brings a harmonious vocal style that complements Drewford Alabama’s idyllic world.
Recorded on a boat drifting down the River Thames, “I Go To Sleep” emanates a dreamlike quality, perfectly suited to the enchanting ambiance of Drewford Alabama’s musical universe. The vocals, delivered with sublime grace, blend seamlessly with the angelic sounds of Tom Monger’s harp, creating a composition that resonates with serene beauty.
In “I Go To Sleep”, Jamie Morrison has indeed struck gold, crafting a musical masterpiece that not only pays homage to its roots but also stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Drewford Alabama’s evocative artistry.
