JJ Byars - “Nod and Applause”
With “Nod and Applause,” I think JJ Byars has created a tune that would pique the interest of most Radiohead fans. I'm reminded of "Jigsaw Falling Into Place" by this tune and I think that it is the drums that are doing that. The composition of the song uses a wide range of instruments and covers a great deal of area in a short amount of time. It is truly genius. Guitar playing in the style of Jonny Greenwood noodles with the quick drum beat. The music moves along well, but yet you know there are going to be twists and turns in this arrangement.
The chorus section is quite lovely and almost reminds me of Queens of the Stone Age. JJ Byars, unquestionably, isn't hesitant to experiment with a diverse range of sounds, including the gritty, driving, and energetic. Electric guitar is melodically riffed over by the saxophone. Byars also serves up a brilliant vocal performance. Staying mostly in the higher vocal register, he briskly narrates the poetic lyrics. The final section holds a surprising tempo and dynamic change, which serves as the cherry on top of this fantastic production. Undoubtedly, this is a beautiful and animated example of indie electric folk pop.
Byars also releases material under the moniker/band Hungry Hands, which has seen success with single “Highline,” recently featured in Tony Hawk Pro Skater, and several TV placements. In the meantime, here is the Spotify link for “Nod and Applause:”