REUBEN JAMES – BIG PEOPLE MUSIC

Reuben James

Reuben James is back with his third studio album Big People Music, and it’s a confident step into something a little bigger, a little wiser, and very much in tune with where he’s at now. Across 16 tracks, the pianist, singer-songwriter and all-round genre-blender offers a lush mix of funk, soul, jazz and pop that feels both refined and relaxed.

This isn’t a flashy album, and that’s part of what makes it enjoyable. Reuben’s not chasing chart-toppers or trying to reinvent the wheel. Instead, he leans into a rich musical history — think Herbie Hancock, a touch of Steely Dan, maybe a bit of D’Angelo — and brings that sound into the present with sharp musicianship and honest songwriting.

There’s a real sense of freedom here. “Own Thing” is cheeky and upbeat with a proper earworm chorus, while “So Lucky” packs a heavier groove and some edge, driven by slap bass and a low-key swagger. “Feel It Coming” offers a more cinematic turn with Jay Prince jumping in, and it works well. Throughout the record, there’s a strong sense of play — whether it’s in the harmonies, the basslines, or the moments of improvisation that sneak in between hooks.

What helps tie the album together is Reuben’s own voice — not just vocally, but emotionally. He’s matured a lot as an artist, and you can hear that in both the lyrics and the production choices. Speaking on the concept behind the album, he says:

“Growing up, I listened to many songs that were considered ‘big people music’ — tracks that you could only understand once you had lived a life. With this album, I wanted to tap into that mature and hypnotic sound for those with exquisite taste but also make sure it’s accessible to everyone. It’s Chic meets Herbie Hancock for the next generation – all tied together by rich live instrumentation.”

That quote sums up the heart of the project. Big People Music is mature without being stiff, soulful without being overly sentimental, and playful without losing depth. The live instrumentation gives it warmth and life, and the guest features — including Jamie Cullum, Jungle, Honne, Emeli Sandé and more — don’t overshadow the core of what makes this album work: Reuben’s vision.

It’s not perfect — a few tracks blend into one another and the energy dips in places — but the highs are strong enough to carry it through. It’s one of those records that gets better with repeat listens, where little details keep revealing themselves.

Overall, Big People Music is a smooth, well-crafted listen. It’s thoughtful without trying too hard to be deep, and joyful in a way that feels earned. If you like your soul music with brains, bounce and a bit of lived experience, this one’s worth sitting with.