NEW MUSIC REVIEW: James "PJ" Spraggins – High Five
- DJ Ten
- Jul 11
- 2 min read
Finding the Silver Lining in Contemporary Jazz
By DJTen | Back On The Block - RadioActive1 WBOB | July 10, 2026
Some albums announce themselves with fireworks.
Then some albums simply settle into the room, invite you to stay awhile, and remind you why contemporary jazz continues to be one of music's most rewarding listening experiences.
James "PJ" Spraggins' fifth studio release, High Five, is firmly in that second category.
A drummer, producer, songwriter, and bandleader, Spraggins has built a reputation for creating music that is as emotionally honest as it is musically sophisticated. On High Five, he celebrates both his fifth album and his 50th birthday with a collection of songs that balance optimism, reflection, and irresistible groove.
One of the record's standout moments is "Silver Lining," featuring the always expressive Kelley Oneal.
The title couldn't be more appropriate.
The song unfolds with warmth rather than urgency, built on a smooth rhythmic foundation, tasteful keyboard textures, and a melody that never forces itself on the listener. Oneal's vocal performance brings genuine soul to the composition, while Spraggins' drumming quietly reminds us why he's one of contemporary jazz's most respected musicians. Every note serves the song.
Instead of dazzling with technical excess, "Silver Lining" succeeds because it understands something many recordings overlook:
Sometimes the strongest statement is simply making people feel better.
That same philosophy runs throughout High Five.
From the infectious title track featuring Oli Silk to the laid-back "Tune In, Chill Out," the uplifting "Hopeful Uncertainty," and collaborations with artists including Kim Scott, Cerdic Draper, Robert Jones Jr., and Phil Davis, the album offers enough variety to keep listeners engaged while maintaining a cohesive musical identity.
Production throughout is clean and spacious, allowing every instrument room to breathe. Spraggins avoids the temptation to overcrowd arrangements, allowing each performer to contribute naturally. The result is an album that sounds equally comfortable through headphones, cruising down the highway, or filling the room during a relaxed evening with friends.
Perhaps that's the greatest compliment you can pay High Five.
It isn't trying to chase trends.
It's creating moments.
In an era when so much music seems designed for quick consumption, James "PJ" Spraggins delivers a project built for listeners who still appreciate musicianship, melody, and songs that reveal something new with every spin.
If "Silver Lining" is any indication, sometimes optimism isn't just a theme.
It's a sound.
Back on the Block Rating
★★★★½ (4.5 out of 5)
Recommended Tracks
"Silver Lining" (feat. Kelley Oneal)
"High Five" (feat. Oli Silk)
Bottom Line: High Five proves that James "PJ" Spraggins continues to grow as both a composer and producer. It's polished without becoming predictable, uplifting without becoming sentimental, and another welcome addition to today's contemporary jazz landscape.