"Used to work in an office/Man, that's such a shame/And I'm so glad I'll never be the same"

His ruminations on love and loss and man's inability to understand the objects of their desire ("Women As A Second Language" is a great example) ring that little inner bell that makes you say, "yeah, that's it, exactly". The songs, represented here by mostly acoustic guitars, drums played with brushes and reverb drenched, melancholy electric guitars and vocals tend to rock despite the "unplugged" settings, and resemble pop songs rather than typical, folkie/singer/songwriter claptrap (see Jackson Browne).

Mr. James' sardonic wit kicks the album off with a sneer with "Never Be The Same". Expert song craft is evident on songs like the elegant "Spiral Staircase", and the sublime "Cigarette Girl". An understated rendition of Lou Reed's "Stephanie Says" fits in perfectly, and the album's two closers, "Either Way" and "Bluegreen" transport you to a very mysterious, yet warm and cozy place. Not that The Quiet Party leaves you feeling all warm and cozy or drowsy for that matter. There's plenty of edginess and a general feeling of unease to keep the party going. Just where the party is going is anyone's guess though.

"Do you have to be so shy?/So sly and enigmatic?/Or do I have to take women as a second language?"

Alec James is good to listen to after a hard day at the office, or when your lover is getting on your last nerve. A song like "You're Own World" confirms your worst fears, but "Auburn Days" reaffirms your belief in the existence of beauty, and something better. This party's kind of like that; subdued and thoughtful, but a damn fine time anyway.