Jamie Webster – 10 for the People

Following his biggest-ever UK tour, Liverpudlian singer-songwriter Jamie Webster releases his third album, 10 for the People. Adored for his observational songwriting that illuminates the shared struggles of everyday people, there has been much anticipation around the artist’s newest record.

The album opens with the upbeat Better Day, a track that encompasses narratives of opportunity. In this, Webster shares a personal tale of how he started out playing gigs in small pubs and is now selling out huge venues. This is a charming opener that captivates the listener with a sympathetic touch. The artist also sings about human tales of hope and compassion, from union workers fighting for equal rights to volunteers giving to others.

The second track had a very positive reaction when it was first released as a single in 2023: Voice of the Voiceless gives voice those who feel powerless against struggles they are facing in their lives, with a reminder that no one should feel alone.

The rest of the album has an undeniable storytelling theme running through it, characteristic of Webster’s songwriting. This is prominent in Lovers in the Supermarket, a track focused on the artist’s observation of a couple shopping together in a local supermarket. Although this song is sweet, it falls short in lyrical depth because of its very literal descriptions, such as seeing them go down the frozen aisle to choose meat for dinner, and doesn’t seem to take the listener anywhere.

Furthermore, a few of the songs have similar openings with closely linked beats and guitar riffs, making it difficult to distinguish from one another. It would have been nice to see more variation in the instrumental accompaniment in each track.

There is a change in this, however, when we get to The Boy (Chapter 1), where the song intros with an electric guitar and brings an interesting twist to the artist’s usual focus. The final track, How Do You Sleep at Night, leaves fans with an easy listen as gentle guitar picking sets the tone.

Overall, 10 for the People has a touching message of hope interwoven throughout but does not deliver as much punch in terms of thinking outside the box as one would hope. There are some strong highlights, however, such as Voice of the Voiceless, which very much elevates the album and brings it to a solid standing.

Webster appeared at Glastonbury 2023 and is set to draw a crowd of over 40,000 for his upcoming headline show where he will return to his hometown of Liverpool at Sefton Park in the summer of this year. This artist’s current direction is very promising and it will be interesting to see what he has to bring, with songwriting that will surely touch the hearts of many.

Emily Downie
Image: John Johnson

10 for the People is released on 26^th January 2024. For further information or to order the album visit Jamie Webster’s website here.

Watch the video for the single Voice of the Voiceless here: