Where Were You When The World Stopped?
Self-Released, 2021
9/10
Listen to Where Were You When The Wold Stopped?
A Los Angeles artist who’s well versed in pop-rock, psyche-rock and even country/folk ideas, these 5 tunes from Brad Byrd are nothing if not heartfelt, as he pays much attention to detail while in the company of Taylor Kropp (guitar), Daniel Rhine (bass), and Dan Joeright (percussion), among others.
Byrd starts the listen with the reflective and warm title track, where his dreamy singing aligns with the light atmosphere that uses synth and steel guitar effectively, and the punchy drumming of “The Bright Lights (Fade Away)” follows with a crunchy indie-rock climate that’s both gritty and melodic.
The middle spot is occupied by the swift and busy “When You Need Me”, where Jadea Kelly’s backing vocals add much to the introspective mood, while “Just Make Me Ok” enters folk territory with strategic keys from Jerry Borge interacting sublimely with the steel guitar. “Chasing Down The Sun” exits the listen and displays strong acoustic guitar and sparing harmonica as a poetic finish puts a firm exclamation point on Byrd’s timeless vision.
Somewhat of a nomad who has lived all over the country, Byrd brings diverse influences from a very imaginative mind, and he’s racked up many songs in film and TV, as well as plenty of soulful, cinematic and intimate records, and this one in particular deserves plenty of attention.
Travels well with: Grant-Lee Phillips- Lightning, Show Us Your Stuff; Joe Bourdet- Meadow Rock