By Amaris Pollinger
The world was on pause…
Consisting of Matt James (lead vocals, guitar), Chris Wilson (drums) and Matt Christoforo (bass), the Connecticut trio, Phatt James (a college nickname given to a reluctant Matt James that he later decided to own) were set to play their debut show at the infamous Toad’s Place, but leave it to COVID-19 to crash a party. With the onset of quarantine, Phatt James headed into the studio to work on their debut album, Just Begun.
“It [the pandemic] definitely made us more connected as a band,” says James, “all the time spent in the studio was monumental to our friendship and understanding of how we work together. The world was on pause, and it was nice to just focus on something we cared about so much.”
Finally, in May of 2023, Phatt James played a successful show to a crowd that long-awaited the band’s debut.
“Connecticut has a surprising music scene,” Matt James continues, “It’s [got] a wide range of underground music coming from the back of warehouses to venues like Park City Music Hall and Space Ballroom; being a part of it all is [our] motivation to keep contributing.”
So why would it surprise anyone that the accompanying music video to their single, “Seven Days” was shot in and around the historic neighborhood of Black Rock in Bridgeport, Connecticut? The track sings the sorrows of an apathetic, bored outta-their-mind Cupid who not only finds his job joyless but realizes he’s in need of his own romance. It’s a “relatable tale of regret” that yearns and burns for love. Much like the myth of Cupid and Psyche—happy accident?
“It is a happy accident for me,” says James, “I didn’t know about her [Psyche’s] part of the myth and it fits so well for the story we told and the emotions of the song.”
The visual concept of the “Seven Days” music video is credited to Kicker Pictures. They took the idea of a loveless Cupid off the shelf and handed it to the band before Phatt James even approached them about filming. Kicker Pictures felt their visual of a love-lorn Cupid fit the bill for “Seven Days.”
But wait…is “Seven Days” putting anyone on blast? James laughs. “No comment on that! Nahhh, whoever connects with the song, it’s for you.”
When you hear “Seven Days,” you pick up hints of The Red Hot Chili Peppers; specifically, “Otherside,” a classic that probably has Gen Z scratching their heads (or maybe they’ll recognize a 2-second sound bite…whatever the kids are doing these days). There’s a taste of ‘90s rock peppered (ha) within Phatt James. And “Seven Days” is ripe with it (damn, all these accidental chili analogies).
“That’s such an honor,” says James, “[“Otherside” is] one of my favorite songs. I feel like it is so unique in its sound, so thank you!”
You’ll find other sonic gems in the varied tapestry of Phatt James. Besides The Red Hot Chili Peppers, James cites Alice in Chains, Incubus, and Pearl Jam as notable influences. While you might hear a bit of progressive rock and metal that inspires drummer Chris Wilson. Matt Christoforo, meanwhile, has a musical taste as varied as the sound Phatt James produces. The band’s natural synergy influences how they work individually as well. Chris Wilson credits Matt James as the lyrical genius equipped with guitar strumming know-how.
“He’s [Matt James] incredibly gracious to have both Matty C and I write our own parts,” and in doing so, each member can shine. This gives the band a unique sound rather than having them cave to the pressure that often comes with building upon a specific style with each song written.
“The writing process is very open and collaborative,” adds bassist Matt Christoforo, “We have the freedom to write our own parts [and] add our own flavors to the songs while giving one another feedback and constructive criticism.” [sic]
Because the members of Phatt James share one music mind; bouncing ideas off of one another is just part of the natural process. An interesting concept when we’re on the cusp of AI swallowing creative spaces (or so they say). The band shudders at the idea.
“I hope it’s used for humor and not seriously to profit off of stolen art…it takes the magic away,” says James.
Chris Wilson agrees, and though he finds AI interesting, he believes that human beings will always make the best music. “The human element of music is so important in order for the listener to connect with the creator.” [sic]
Matt Christoforo likens AI to being as threatening to music now as synths and digital recording once were. “It’ll be interesting to see how it goes, but I’ll pass.” (Ditto).
Pandemic? Psh. AI creative takeover? Please.
Phatt James isn’t concerned and quite frankly, why should they be? AI or not, Phatt James is going strong into the future. There are plenty of as-of-yet unreleased tracks from Just Begun that fans can anticipate. So, if you’re looking for something as nostalgic as it is fresh, don’t make’em wait—go listen to “Seven Days” and remember; Phatt James has only Just Begun.
For more Phatt James, head here and be on the lookout for more live shows!
*Cover photo by Cameron Cyr, courtesy of Gioia Communications.