Early James at Ramsgate Music Hall

Early James is a solo project (formerly Early James and the Latest) by Alabama singer-songwriter Fredrick James Mullis Jr., not a traditional band, though he performs with a backing group. His sound is an "anti-purist" blend of Americana, blues, folk, and alternative rock, characterized by a distinctive voice that ranges from a "gravel-gruff shout" to a "honey-smooth whisper" or a "tattered and nervous" croon. His music is frequently compared to Tom Waits, Howlin’ Wolf, and Fiona Apple, with lyrical styles inspired by the alliteration of Apple and the storytelling of James Taylor.