J Appiah - That’s the Thing About Time (Album)

Hackney born artist J Appiah has released his long awaited debut album That’s the Thing About Time, a soulful, genre blurring project that crowns a landmark year of sold out European shows and critically praised singles.

Drawing on the confessional warmth of classic soul, touches of psychedelia, and the rhythmic influence of his Ghanaian upbringing, Appiah shapes a record rooted in reflection and renewal. “My mum always had Ghanaian music playing at home,” he says. “Those sweet melodies and driving drums have always stayed with me.”

Co produced with Hugh Fothergill, Barnabus Poffley, and Fergall Mulloy, and mixed in Japan by Alan Dobson, the album moves freely between moods: from the Beatle esque sway of “LSA (Long Saddest Affair)” to the cinematic lift of “Look Back” and the percussive, late night energy of “One Thirty AM.” At its core sits “Father,” the moving lead single written after his own father’s passing, released poignantly just as Appiah becomes a father himself.

Years on the road have shaped the album’s perspective. As a touring member of Gorillaz, Appiah travelled through 24 countries and played festivals including Coachella before joining Michael Kiwanuka on a sold out 2025 UK and European tour. “Playing live gave these songs a new sense of connection,” he says.

With That’s the Thing About Time, Appiah steps confidently into his next chapter, soulful, searching, and unmistakably ready for a global stage. A live EP, Road Test 001, recorded during the Kiwanuka tour, is set to follow, with new music already in the works for 2026.