In an amazing blend of indie pop and jazz, Thomas Headon and Lizzy McAlpine have put their minds together to make an eccentric and interesting single titled Bored that would even color Jacob Collier impressed.

The first thing that anyone listening to this song will notice is the very complex, ever moving chord progression. It does loop throughout the song, but the basis of it is incredibly intricate, moving through such interesting harmonies to get where it wants to go. The melody effortlessly wanders through the rapid chord progressions, making the song almost sound normal for a second. But that’s only because both Thomas and Lizzy are masters at their craft, and find the perfect ways to not only make sense from these chords, but also make it incredibly catchy. Both of them also have a wonderful way with their words, there’s something so casual about everything in this song, despite being so impressive. It really feels like these two only sat down one evening and wrote and recorded the entire tune in one evening with how friendly and casual it sounds. Both of their voices also complement each other’s beautifully. Thomas’ grizzly, almost punk-ish tone, along with Lizzy’s soft, breathy voice filled with vocal runs, make for an awesome contrast, and work especially well in this song. When I first heard the intro, I wasn’t sure exactly where they were headed with this song, until the chorus came in, with the Stratocaster guitars strumming out the chords, the funky, dirty drums, and the rumbling bass. This is a super groovy track, one that I can’t say I’ve really heard Lizzy do before, but it suits her wonderfully. This was my introduction to Thomas, so perhaps he has done tunes like this, and even if not, I already consider myself a fan.

Bored is a fun, popping, nerdy little song full of jazz harmony and neo-soul instrumentation. There are also plenty of flavors from other genres, not really every pertaining to a single formula. This really showcases the two of them wonderfully, and is just accessible enough for people oblivious to their styles to be introduced, and also veterans of jazz, funk, soul, and R&B to find plenty of enjoyment in this short track. It’s impressive to say the least, and it’s objectively a wonderful song.

Author: Nicholas Gaudet

Music producer and writer from Dieppe, Canada.