(label)
06 December 2025 (released)
15 h
James McCartney’s latest single, ‘Ribbons,’ marks his second release in as many months following up on the momentum of last year’s Beautiful Nothing album. Released on December 5, 2025, the track is credited to McCartney as both the performer and the producer.
Channelling personal memories and a sense of reflective melancholy, ‘Ribbons’ is an introspective tune that conjures up a brooding Dave Grohl or the thoughtful, folk-rock sound of Elliott Smith. The low-key, measured tempo sets an atmospheric tone balancing the clarity of the guitar with the prominence of the vocal delivery. McCartney’s vocal performance is confidently steady, conveying the pensive tone. The track maintains a consistent, understated emotional register throughout, a characteristic that will undoubtedly delight dedicated listeners who appreciate his focused and mature approach to songwriting.
The core thematic content sits comfortably within the thoughtful, folk-influenced framework he has long employed.
The song functions as a solid, if reserved, continuation of James McCartney’s output, firmly establishing his position as a focused and gifted artist dedicated to crafting the finest corners of alternative folk songwriting.
