Joseph G. Thompson might sound familiar to some. That’s because he spent the last two decades touring and recording music with his wife under the moniker Joseph & Maya. Describing the project as successful is a tad reductive, as the duo boasts millions of streams on Spotify and a healthy history of international shows. Yet, in the past few years, the pair has taken time away from music, focusing on growing their family and even completing a move to London from their native New Zealand.
‘I Don’t Belong Here’ is the direct result of such a peculiar history. Recorded just before their new life in Europe, the album sees Joseph G. Thompson taking the lead and penning an honest, wholesome record that’s partly nostalgic and partly evocative. Reflecting on life, identity, and belonging, Thompson comes to the realisation that he’s looking for more, perhaps more than New Zealand has to offer.
Packing nine wholesome offerings, ‘I Don’t Belong Here’ ventures into heartwarming folk and indie tones, with an array of electric and acoustic guitars well supporting Joseph’s malleable, elegant vocals. There’s a touch of melancholia in it all, but also an understated sentiment of hope, as it’s clear that Thompson and his wife are eager for a new start and know exactly where to find it.
Recommended! Discover ‘I Don’t Belong Here’ now: