George Ezra makes his way across the pond this month—physically and digitally—first through his performance last week in Montreal opening for “Stay With Me” singer, Sam Smith; and then by the release of his debut album, Wanted on Voyage, to the North American market.  The album was previously released on May 19, 2014 with great success featuring hits such as “Budapest” and will now be attempting to make its way into the hearts of Americans with its secondary release on Jan. 27.    

Travelling suits the 21-year-old singer, as the majority of the album was written while he was backpacking across Europe, as displayed through such songs as “Barcelona” and “Blind Man in Amsterdam.” Ezra conveys powerful and complex emotional ideas through his simple and real songs, which have a transcendent nature. His music encapsulates a wide spectrum, from the youthful upbeat tunes of “Cassy O’” and “Blame it On Me,” the latter of which calls for one to seize the day, asking “what you waiting for” with the fear and pressure of passing time, to the protective slow embrace of “Coat of Armour” and the darker haunting sound of “Did You Hear the Rain?” Produced by Cameron Blackwood. The album has effectively updated old techniques yet kept the integrity of its spirit, which contributes to make the youthful Ezra’s music feel eternal.    

Ezra can already count a fan in Ian McKellen—better known as Gandalf—who was featured in his music video for “Listen to the Man.” This great new artist will be returning to Montreal and opening for Hozier on March 3 at the Metropolis.