SPILL MUSIC PREMIERE: JAMES LLOYD SMITH – “LAKE WALK”

JAMES LLOYD SMITH – “LAKE WALK”

A SPILL EXCLUSIVE MUSIC PREMIERE

Kent-based indie-folk songwriter James Lloyd Smith is set to release another charming and laid-back single, with “Lake Walk” available across all major streaming platforms April 25th.

Blending the peaceful nature of Nick Drake and Joni Mitchell with the lo-fi and DIY methodology of Sufjan Stevens, “Lake Walk” is an ode to simple living in the English countryside, which James explains has a strong impact on his music. Born during an introspective time in his life where he became withdrawn socially, he takes solace and peace from long evening walks around the lake at Hever Castle & Gardens in Edenbridge, a routine that shaped the essence of the song’s atmosphere.

“The Kent Countryside, sometimes known as The Garden Of England has had a huge influence on my sound,’ James explains. ‘“ try to write music that to some degree reflects how the landscape makes me feel,’ he added, calling the song a ‘thank you letter to the edifying quality of the natural world.”

James Lloyd Smith’s authenticity is what shines on “Lake Walk” as the song is self-produced on the now-obsolete 2011 MacBook Pro, while the beautiful guitar work actually stems from a £10 parlour acoustic guitar he bought on eBay. The production lends some wonderful layers to the track, with a glockenspiel melody that James said was inspired by The Beach Boys’ legendary album Pet Sounds, as well as brushes on a snare drum that underlie a piano, double bass and electric bass. “I wanted to keep the palette of sounds fairly natural drawing from folk music and 1960’s baroque pop as inspirations,” he adds.

Adding to the authenticity are the locations that James used for recording the track. His ode to the comfort found in the natural world is recorded in the places he frequents, including his bedroom, friends’ houses, and college classrooms. In Particular, he arranged a recording session at his friend’s house just to record the single’s double bass. “I think recording outside of the traditional studio setting gives music a different context and quality.”

“Lake Walk” is available on all major streaming platforms from April 25th.

James Lloyd Smith
[Single]
(Independent)
Release Date: April 25, 2025

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