If you’re tracking the Atlanta music scene and haven’t come across Jonah Swilley, you probably want to start paying better attention. Although he’s toured as a drummer for Curtis Harding and the Night Beats and produced and written records for the likes of the Moonwalks, the Gartrells, and Paul Macdonald, his most notable claim to fame is his current status as a writer, producer, and lead guitarist for Mattiel. Since forming the band with Randy Michael and Mattiel Brown in 2015, the group has skyrocketed to international acclaim with is own raucous blend of garage rock and vintage soul.

But while Mattiel remains very much a going concern—the band is currently working on their third studio album with Sugar Records, Swilley’s own production label—the songwriter and multi-instrumentalist has been patiently waiting for the opportunity to share his solo music. Today, we’re excited to assist him in that endeavor with the premiere of “The First,” his new single and video.

Driven by breezy rhythms and Swilley’s warm, understated vocals, “The First,” shows his command of melody and compositional organization. In general, it’s less exuberant than what we’ve grown accustomed to with Mattiel, but the song’s sense of restraint and it’s gentle pacing help engender a feeling of quiet bliss that builds with each billowing hook. It’s pleasant in a way that seems seductive, which is a tricky combination to pull off. For Swilley, however, the performance feels effortless.

Shot in collaboration with director Jobey Wright, the video plays like a summertime daydream filled with sandy beaches and crystal waters. Throughout the clip, Swilley appears to have a deep affection for a striped beach ball, but the vibe is more lighthearted and amusing than it is surreal. Overall, it’s a gratifying effort from a gifted artist. Swilley may be accustomed to working behind the scenes and from the shadows, but it’s nice to see him get his time in the sun.

Watch/listen above.

More Info
Facebook: @JonahSwilleyMusic
Instagram: @jonahswilley
SoundCloud: @jonahswilley