J Holmes (of FVRMN) presents his new solo album: Cedarwings.
J Holmes is the lead singer and songwriter of the band FVRMN, but he recently focused on a solo endeavor with a new album, Cedarwings.
Borrowing from his background in alt-country and rock, Holmes brings a fresh sound that blends earnest storytelling with great melodies. This release includes new songs alongside a few previously released singles from 2024, forming a collection that reveals his growth as an artist.
The production took shape when Holmes teamed up with Brian Scheuble, who has worked with respected names like Tom Petty, Stevie Nicks, and Aimee Mann, only to mention a few. Scheuble’s dedication helped shape the album’s open and spacious feel, with so many layers, painstakingly put together to come up with a wall of vocals and guitars that add to the size of the production, while still retaining an intimate and down-to-earth tone. It’s not easy to make songs feel big while retaining warmth and closeness, and this record is a true masterclass in actually making that happen!
The musicians who performed on the album are an amazing cast of talents, who contributed to the record in unique ways. Daniel Gardner plays bass on most of the tracks, adding depth and steady grooves. Warren van Eyck’s drumming offers a steady foundation that supports the songs’ emotional moods. Austin Hayman complements Holmes’s vision with guitar tones that fit perfectly into each arrangement, while Christian Madden from the Liam Gallagher Band makes appearances on the Hammond organ for a few cuts. Madden’s skill on the keys broadens the album’s range, bringing a classic rock element that suits Holmes’s alt-country leanings.
The album covers a wide range of themes, with songs exploring various topic. From personal reflection to broader stories about life’s twists and turns, anything goes. As a result of the spontaneous lyricism, the album feels genuine, like a snapshot of a moment in time and an introspective portrait of the artist’s mindset when creating these songs. Fans of FVRMN will definitely encounter something familiar here. The band’s alternative rock and alt-folk vibes trickled down into Holmes’ solo work as well, but there is something more to the table. These songs have a marked country-inspired side to the music, enhanced by thoughtful lyrics and memorable hooks, which get to shine in a more minimalistic setting. One highlight is the track “FU PAY ME,” which features Luke Cuerdon delivering a burst of intensity with his guitar tone, adding a new layer of variety to the album. The collaboration captures a spirit of honest frustration, tackled with a sense of wry humor that sets Holmes apart.
An especially notable moment appears in track eight, the “torchlit version” of “Esoteric Lover.” Michael Fogarty handled the mix, as well as the Hammond and backing vocals, lending a darker, intimate angle to the arrangement that feels incredibly cinematic. Rama Colmer’s drumming is truly in the pocket, locking in with the groove, while Joas Cardoso and Tuk Knill contribute violin parts that hover in the background. Their additions enrich the track, giving it a warm feel that stands out. The bass by David Pallash grounds the music, and Andy Holmes, J Holmes’s brother, appears on the chorus, forming a genuine family touch.
Another key highlight is “Three Sisters,” which gains a layered, haunting quality thanks to Will Allen’s ethereal playing. The track also features a special guest, Leo Abrahams, whose previous work with Brian Eno, Regina Spektor, and Ed Harcourt shows he is no stranger to interesting sonic palettes. His atmospheric guitar parts add a distinct flare that pairs well with Holmes’s voice, resulting in a memorable fusion of rock and ambient textures.
Cedarwings is an album that stands on its own for fans of alt-country and alternative rock, but it also appeals to listeners drawn to the classic tones of Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac, Francis Moon, and ELO. The music balances energy with heart, which reflects Holmes’s longtime passion for storytelling. He takes themes like longing and nostalgia, mixes in lively tempos, and delivers tracks that remain engaging from start to finish.
Though Cedarwings came together swiftly, it represents Holmes’s dedication and creative drive. Each track reveals his evolving style and willingness to explore different elements. The musicians who joined him helped shape this cohesive record, and the crisp production ensures that listeners will catch every layer. In the end, Holmes has crafted an album that resonates with people who appreciate heartfelt songwriting wrapped in a rich soundscape. As the lead singer and songwriter of FVRMN, Holmes has taken a significant step forward by sharing his individual voice. Cedarwings testifies to his range, influences, and vision. With its blend of new songs and reworked singles, this full-length album delivers a complete statement of where Holmes stands as a musician right now, and suggests the path he may take in the future.
