“We Were Raised Under Grey Skies” opens JP Cooper’s debut album with a charming narration of the singer/songwriter’s Manchester childhood. Offering such a sincere window into his early years feels fitting for an artist comfortable with his heart on his sleeve. Folk-inflected and tender, Cooper’s vocals have an engaging optimism—inviting you to feel as hopeful as he does. He effortlessly moves from gospel (“Momma’s Prayers”) to soulful R&B (“All This Love“) via sun-soaked pop (“September Song” and “Passport Home”) to craft an earnest and warm debut.