Chicago based songwriter James Curley writes literate songs in the tradition mined by songwriters such as Warren Zevon, John Hiatt, Steve Goodman and Jackson Browne. Primarily observing the broader human condition rather than relationship and love songs, James' keen eye for absurdity, hypocrisy, pathos and human interest is evident in the lyrics of his songs.

Appearing live in the Midwest with his band, Radio Fade, James performs rhythmic, rootsy Americana-tinged Folk-Rock. The sound is gutsy and authentic, featuring James on acoustic and electric guitars, Ben Lansing on various guitars and stringed instruments, Joel Pace on Accordion and Keyboards, and veteran rhythm section players George Callobre (bass) and Dave Heim (percussion).