James McAlister is a drummer and percussionist who is most well known for his work with Sufjan Stevens. He provided most percussion and drums on Stevens' Illinois album, and contributed to a few of Sufjan’s many Christmas songs.

He has also provided drums and percussion for Josh Garrels on his Christmas album.

Most recently, James has released an album named Planetarium, which was released alongside Sufjan Stevens, Bryce Dessner and Nico Muhly.