New album produced by Dan Auerbach and recorded at Buddy’s Honky Chateau in Nashville, TN
Early James has released his third album, Medium Raw, via Easy Eye Sound. Known for his jagged, moaning blues and whip-smart songwriting, the album was produced by Dan Auerbach and recorded in a unique, intimate setting at Buddy Jackson’s Honky Chateau in Nashville. The 100-year-old house, with its plaster walls, oak floors, and vintage charm, lent its character to the recordings, which capture a “lived-in, real-world ambiance.”
Early James – Medium Raw

On Medium Raw, Early James delivers a blend of playful, smart, and fiercely rocking original songs. The album includes seven original tracks, such as the fan favorite “Dig to China,” alongside co-writes with renowned songwriters like:
- Dan Auerbach and Pat McLaughlin (“I Got This Problem”)
- Jeff Trott (“Nothing Surprises Me Anymore”)
- Langhorne Slim (“Go Down Swinging”)
- Mick Flannery (“Upside Down Umbrella”)
- Ryan Sobb (“Unspeakable Thing”)
This record builds on James’ signature style of humor (both light and dark), upended clichés, and literary intelligence.
Behind the Recording Process
After recording his first two albums in a traditional studio, producer Dan Auerbach opted for a different approach with Medium Raw. Inspired by classic Arhoolie records, Auerbach moved the process to the Honky Chateau, where James and his band recorded live.
James recalls:
“Pretty much everything you hear on Medium Raw was cut ‘au naturel.’ There are just two overdubs on the entire record.”
The stripped-down setting allowed for a raw, authentic sound:
“James’ little Princeton amp was right behind him, bleeding into his vocal mic. You could hear the room in the recordings — it was beautiful,” Auerbach adds.
The lineup included longtime bassist Adrian Marmolejo, drummer Jeff Clemens (G. Love & Special Sauce), and percussionist Sam Bacco, who all played in separate rooms. Despite the challenges, the live setup brought an organic energy to the music.
Live Performances and Tour Highlights
James recently supported artists such as Charlie Crockett, The Wallflowers, and St. Paul & the Broken Bones in the U.S. In 2023, he toured Australia, playing at the Port Fairy Folk Festival and other notable venues.
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Photo credit: Jim Herrington