I came across Jay Byham as one half of the duo, Jay Bird and Haley Bee and was really impressed with their debut EP, Take Flight in 2017. Jay and Haley are currently working on a full length follow up, but in the meantime Jay has hooked up with most of Smash Palace for his own debut EP.
Stephen Butler Co-writes, produces and plays Lead Guitar on the EP whilst Glen Maragos and David Uosikkinen are on Bass and Drums respectively. The Smash Palace involvement is most prevalent on the two faster numbers when the Rhythm Section let go most. Butler's Guitar is an absolute revelation across the EP.
Byham walks a line that is largely heading for Folk Pop, think of Al Stewart and Cat Stevens, but also more recent Singer Songwriters. For instance, this EP knocks spots of the lauded David Gray. Figure It Out As We Go is wonderfully melodic and enhanced by the Organ and Guitar with a surprise Beatles like ending.
The Only One is similarly gentle and laid back, almost a torch Ballad, again beautifully played. I Can't Take It Anymore races along with a fine twang and slightly Psych Pop lead and just wait for the solo. Just A Matter Of Time rocks even more and probably just nicks it as the best song here. It is a crackerjack of a song.
Byham's vocal may be gentle, but it rightly dominates the album. I knew the slower songs would be ace, but the additional pace caught me by surprise and that's what makes this such a fine EP. Chorus led, beautifully sung and expertly produced, this is top notch.
You can listen to and buy the EP here.
..........................
Great read, Jay is an astonishing singer/songwriter musician. His sound is similar to the 1970's, but with a new freshness added.
ReplyDeleteKeep up the amazing work Mr Byham
Jay Byham is awesome. Great singer songwriter.
ReplyDelete