j j brierley is a poet and singer; a guitar and mandolin player who values 'feel' over technical ability. He is a songwriter with one foot in the folk tradition of the past and the other foot stepping into the future. He has formerly used the stage name Jai James.
In 2007, under the name Jai James, 'Butterfly Song' appeared on 'What the Folk- Butterfly Acoustic Recordings Vol. 1'- the first compilation album from Butterfly Recordings (record producer Youth and guitarist Simon Tong's indie folk label).
" ... this compilation of acoustic homemade recordings by unknown artists is a quiet gem..." (from the 4 star review of 'What the Folk' in MOJO Feb '07)
"...a mouthwatering showcase of what is to come..." (NME)
In 2009 elementary recordings beat off the competition to release his debut ep "You and Amy's Lover".
It has been described as "rich and full" and has "songs to lift the spirit".
j j by Marcus J
Cover artwork by Jo Stapes and al neils