In the fine tradition of Space Rock bassists, James was originally a guitarist, but was then seduced by the dark side. Major influences are, of course, the pivotal Hawkwind bass players Dave Anderson, Lemmy, Alan Davey and Adrian Shaw, as are Holgar Czukay of Can and Jim Smith of the Cardiacs.

As a part of Xoo, James also dabbles in keyboards, synths, the odd spot of violin/ viola, as well as singing and co-writing music and lyrics. James played various intsruments with a number of 90’s North Eastern acts, inculding the punk-folkers the Scavengers and progressive rock outfit Black Rain. He is a great enthusiast for all things German, including obscure Krautrock bands and the strange films such as Metropolis and Nosferatu.