Out tomorrow, Jamie McIntyre’s new album ‘Chapter 23’ feels like the turning of a well-worn page in a book he’s been writing for years. With six carefully crafted tracks, Jamie’s not just following the story, he’s taking control of the pen, bringing heart, honesty, and some seriously catchy hooks that will stay with you long after your first listen.
Opening track “West is Home” sets the tone straight away. It’s got that punchy, upbeat energy, paired with lyrics that feel like a love letter to your roots. It manages to be both reflective and made-for-a-singalong—with that catchy chorus. This one is practically begging for a crowd to join in. It’s super catchy, well-produced, and a solid way to kick things off.
Then comes “San Diego,” which for many generations of Irish people, will be a very relatable track. This one’s for anyone who’s daydreamed of sun-soaked adventures while being back living in your childhood bedroom. Jamie nails the nostalgia, the longing for something more and that niggling feeling you probably should be somewhere else. This track does a great job of balancing slick production with a seriously raw vocal delivery that hits especially hard near its slowed-down ending. It’s full of little textures that elevate the track without overcrowding it, very smart, very polished.
Next up is“Grá”. This is the one. An absolute standout in a standout album. It’s beautifully written and already feels timeless, the kind of song that could soundtrack summer sunsets or winter heartbreaks. Jamie’s vocals soar here, and the sentiment lingers. There’s something special about how it holds onto Irish identity while still sounding completely universal. This one’s going to be stuck in a lot of heads for a long time (ours included).
“Everything” dials things back a little with a smooth, laid-back vibe that’s all about subtlety. The guitar work is pure bliss, its lovely, understated but effective and the lyrics carry that effortless charm. It’s a gentle reminder that Jamie doesn’t have to belt to make a statement. He’s got range, and he’s not afraid to lean into simplicity when it works.
“Say You Need Me” brings the tempo back up with a bit of an edge. There’s a grit to the instrumental build and that slightly distorted whistle-beat combo feels perfect for a live setting. It’s lyrically a little bit darker than the other tracks on this album but still hopeful, like someone processing love in real time. Another track that’ll hit different onstage, for sure. But from listening to this album at home and in the car traveling, I can confirm these tracks will all hit you in every setting.
And then we wrap things up with “January Nights,” a slow, stripped-back closer that feels like a deep breath. It’s intimate, open-hearted, and just really beautiful. The kind of track that makes you pause, reflect, and then hit replay before the silence fully kicks in.
Jamie describes this project as the best work he’s ever released and honestly, he’s not wrong. You can hear the graft, the growth, and the gratitude in every second of Chapter 23. He’s poured everything into this, and it shows.
Jamie’s EP Chapter 23 drops tomorrow May 10th. He also kickstarts his tour dates tonight with a sold out show in Whelan’s. You can catch our full review and photo gallery from that show with support from the incredible Dawna, live on the site tomorrow.
Chapter 23 flies in with an 8.5 out of 10
Reviewer – Alan Robinson @alan_robinson_photography