James MacPherson talks about the concept behind upcoming EP ‘MINE’ — exclusive interview

You noted that “Not Better” is like a sequel to a song you wrote a long time ago called “Not Bitter.” What are some similarities and differences lyrically and musically between the original and this ‘sequel’? What were some things that you went through that helped shape your latest single?

Not Better is a sequel song to Not Bitter, first time I’ve ever done that! when I was writing I had some intense writers block but I had some feelings that felt familiar, I played the chords to Not Bitter and had the realization that I have felt this way before. 

When I wrote Not Bitter I was in a bad cycle where I wasn’t living my life to it’s fullest potential. I was chronically ill, out of control of my life, doing anything for other people but nothing for myself, waiting for life to come get me instead of leaving and taking life for myself. 

After the events of the last few years I felt that way again. 

But it was okay this time, because I had been here before. I had the tools to get myself out. Not Better is about these cycles in life that aren’t linear and won’t just go away until you get to a better place and feel fulfilled. It’s okay to be back where you started as long as you know your way out.

What inspired you to name your latest EP MINE?

This EP is the first set of songs where I fully take the roll of songwriter and producer. I play nearly every instrument on the record and anything I couldn’t play myself was meticulously crafted by me. These are songs that belong to me and they are exactly what I heard in my head when I was writing them on an acoustic guitar on my couch. The theme of taking the power back is strong here.

If you had to pick an alternative title for your EP, what would it be and why?

I don’t think too hard about titles because the right one always appears when you need it. In this case the lyric that stood out to me was

 “about that heart I gave to you/ it’s mine”

and I think the full line as the title (although I love fall out boy) wasn’t as effective as the singular “MINE”

What artists/songs do you have on repeat right now?

The albums I was listening to while recording were very all over the place but some artists that have really gotten me recently –

-Dijon (absolutely)

-Ben Howard (Collections from the white out)

-Charli XCX (Crash)

-Snail Mail Valentine 

The National every single album

And my go to is always -The Strokes (The New Abnormal)

What do you hope fans gain from listening to your upcoming EP?