Sydney-born producer Hayden James releases his sophomore album Lifted today via Future Classic. This project infuses the same emotion he evokes on his live performances, filled with euphoric masterpieces to fuel his fans. Inspired by the desire to create an energetic and uplifting collection to bring people together, Hayden delivers this gift to the world. Special guest artists featured on this include Elderbrook, Boo Seeka, Jem Cooke, SIDEPIECE, Yaeger, and Cassian.
James pulls out all the stops for rippling energy, vocal textures, and addictive house cuts. This is the perfect introduction to his music ahead of his debut Coachella performance.
“LIFTED was born out of the yearning for some light and positivity after a tough last few years for everyone. As I started writing the album, I kept coming back to the idea of creating something energetic and live. [Super] uplifting that could bring people together again. I began working on the album late 2020 and used all the time off I had from touring to make something special. [I] knew the return to live music would be epic, a major vibe.
The result is a huge emotional, energetic dance record, with elements of piano-house, melodic house and a positive tone and feel that can be found across all tracks. When I write an album, everything has a place and a purpose, and it’s all part of the bigger story. I’m so happy with the journey of this album.”
‘Lights Go Down‘ features SIDEPIECE and is a carefree dance-pop track born in LA. With unshakable grooves and infectious hooks, this is characteristic of both artists. Make this your poolside summer track and blast it. ‘Hold Tight‘ radiates uplifting house with classic piano chords. It’s not house music unless you have a few ivories tickled. With emphatic vocals, Hayden sends a message of hope for fans to get back to doing what they love and hold on to that special someone.
‘Fade‘ features Flynn with a deep house cut and hook that showcases what Hayden is known for. ‘On Your Own‘ is an anthem with lyrics and melody overflowing with emotion. ‘Waiting For Nothing‘ features Yaeger and owns rising synths through a pulsating house beat with vocals. ‘Free‘ features Boo Seeka and is a deep, emotive, smoky beast. The synths and grooves educate you with euphoria. ‘Down On Me‘ with Xavier Dunn’ is bouncy and positive, steady as the house beating drum. The entire album has synths and beefed-up basslines that crown house music as king.
You’ll also find 90s era house soundscapes with ‘Lifted‘ featuring Tudor and Hayden’s swan song ‘I Won’t Let You Down‘ with Jem Cooke. That is the deepest emotional moment, as an homage to a dear friend’s passing. Each track is strongly connected to the other and flows from start to finish with intuitive energy. Celebrate Hayden’s new music with his LIFTED North America tour straight after Coachella from May 5th to June 11th. He promises to deliver high production, arena-worthy moments and a spectacular return for fans to remember.
Check out his sophomore album below.
