‘Motionless’ is the first single from Drama Queen, the second album from Nashville-based Brit, Eddy Bayes. Following up his debut album, 2013’s Miscellaneous, Bayes’ first single takes his music one step further in terms of tasteful playing and subtle inflections. His measured falsetto conjures that seemingly discordant sense of sadness and warmth at the same time, like being in an empty home after a loved one has gone. The sound brings to mind the work of Bon Iver, with rounder edges.
Once again teaming up with cellist Abi Loutoo, Bayes is joined on the choruses to echo the lamenting tone of his voice. There’s something about staying with the solo cello over a string quartet that keeps these kinds of songs from becoming over dramatic. The line between a hip, thoughtful tune, and a cheesy ballad can come down to tone and production choices and Bayes and Loutoo walk that line beautifully.
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‘Motionless’ captures a very specific feeling. It inevitably triggers wistful nostalgia. We’re still waiting on a release date for the full Drama Queen EP so keep your ears open.
Words by Jon Ireson