Canadian Singer-Songwriter James Leclaire Digs Deep and Delivers Raw Truth on 'Self Deconstruction'

Ottawa singer-songwriter James Leclaire returns with his powerful sixth album, Self Deconstruction, a raw and deeply personal exploration of heartbreak, anger, and ultimately, healing.

This record, due for release on June 20th, is an emotional excavation, peeling back the layers of James’ own struggles with a grit and honesty that instantly resonates. Much like Bruce Springsteen’s Devils and Dust or Tom Petty’s Highway Companion, Self Deconstruction embodies the rock spirit while delving into the shadows of the human experience.

From the moment the needle drops on the title track, James wastes no time immersing listeners in his world of self-examination and emotional unraveling. Lines like,“I’m gonna grind my teeth right down to the nerve / I’m going to scream until my voice is lost,” cut deep, giving a visceral glimpse into his inner turmoil. The album’s pacing shifts dynamically, with tracks like the hauntingly reflective “Victim of The Blues” — penned years earlier but now more poignant than ever — gently pulling listeners into James’ long journey through pain and recovery.

What stands out about Self Deconstruction is how it balances the raw honesty of hurt with the painstaking process of emotional repair. Whether it’s the stripped-down vulnerability of “Nothing Left to Give,” the simmering frustration of “The Anger In Me,” or the fiery release of “Burn,” James’ songwriting and delivery are captivatingly sincere. And while the record doesn’t shy away from darkness, it also carries a strong thread of hope, particularly in “Flesh and Blood,” where James compares his resilience to the unstoppable forces of nature:“My cuts bled like the night falls / My wounds healed like the dawn / This scar is forever, but like the stars / Well, I will sparkle and shine on.”

The album’s sonic landscape is enriched by the contributions of top-tier collaborators including mandolinist and guitarist Kevin Breit (Norah Jones), Juno nominee John Fraser Findlay, and drummer Michael Hunter. Recorded at Ottawa’s Bova Sound with producer Phillip Victor Bova, Self Deconstruction is a beautifully textured work that combines introspective storytelling with evocative instrumentation.

James’ personal journey adds depth and authenticity to every note. His path — from a creative child struggling academically, to a successful storyboard artist and animation studio co-founder, and finally to a deeply introspective artist confronting life’s toughest trials—is reflected in the maturity and grit of his songwriting. After a painful marriage breakup in 2020, James channeled his anguish and growth into a prolific outpouring of music, culminating in this remarkable collection.

Self Deconstruction isn’t just an album you listen to — it’s one you feel. James Leclaire writes with heart, soul, and delivers each performance with unflinching conviction. This record is a testament to the power of honest storytelling and the healing potential of art.

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The title track from the album 'Come On In' released in 2024, expect tracks like this and much more on'Self Deconstruction', the continuation of James' story, you will not be disappointed.