James Members, Gear & Sound
Dutch rapper James J. Benjamins
Members
Select a James band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
James is an influential British rock band hailing from Manchester, England, renowned for their blend of rock, new wave, and pop rock. Formed in 1982, the group initially gained a cult following with their art rock style before achieving mainstream success. The band consists of Tim Booth (vocals), Jim Glennie (bass), Saul Davies (guitar, violin), Mark Hunter (keyboards), David Baynton-Power (drums), and Andy Diagram (trumpet, percussion). Their music is characterized by anthemic melodies and introspective lyrics, resonating with fans across the globe. Notable albums such as Gold Mother and Laid have solidified their place in the pantheon of classic British rock.
How to Sound Like James
James’s sound is a dynamic fusion of melodic and rhythmic elements, characterized by rich, layered textures and a vibrant, sometimes euphoric energy. The band's music often features crisp guitar tones, as achieved by Saul Davies using a Fender Telecaster, combined with ambient effects like the Empress Effects Reverb and Boss DD-7 Digital Delay, which contribute to their expansive soundscapes. The pulsating bass lines of Jim Glennie, often played on a Music Man Stingray, provide a driving force that complements the band's vivid compositions. This interplay of melodic depth and rhythmic drive, augmented by eclectic instrumentation, creates the distinctively rich and emotive sound James is celebrated for.
Discography
Stutter
1986
Strip-Mine
1988
Gold Mother
1990
James
1991
Seven
1992
Laid
1993
Wah Wah
1994
Whiplash
1997
Millionaires
1999
Pleased To Meet You
2001
Fresh As A Daisy - The Singles
2007
Hey Ma
2008
The Morning After The Night Before (US version)
2010
Laid / Wah Wah (Super Deluxe Edition)
2014
La Petite Mort
2014
Girl at the End of the World
2016
Living in Extraordinary Times
2018
Live in Extraordinary Times
2020
Be Opened By The Wonderful
2023
Yummy
2024
Yummy / Pudding
2024
James (Live at the Acropolis)
2025
Nothing But Love - The Definitive Best Of
2025
Get the James Sound
Want to sound like James? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.