The end of November is stressful; whether it’s  post-election blues, school finals, wrapping up some big work projects, or even just heading into the holidays, it’s easy to feel ground down by end of year responsibilities. So if you are looking for a soothing, breezy jam to escape the stress,  Jonathan Something’s latest single “A Fan” is the perfect soundtrack for any and all chilling out. 

The track is a multi-instrumental dream, dripping with synthesized piano chords and whirling guitar solos. The more pop-based retro sound is mixed with droning effects, giving the song a strong psychedelic edge.  It is still a pleasant listen, a cloud of to drift away on carried away by the muted tones of creator Jon Searles’ voice. 

Behind the whimsical sound, Searles’ lyrics are a bit darker. The pairing makes for an intriguing contrast, and Jonathan Something demonstrates a strong sense of wit in the song’s meaning. “‘A Fan’ is a romanticized version of human jealousy,” Searle describes. “It’s about the constant lust for being someone you’ll never be.  It’s a feeling of change for the worse and the downwards spiral that follows.”While the song deals in heavy and intelligent subject matter, it doesn’t bum the listener out. Instead, it filters the message through layers of baroque pop fun. Whether you are trying to get through the end of the week sludge, or the end of the month sludge, or the end of the year sludge, Jonathan Something has brought the perfect rock-pop single to power through.

 The release was recorded written and recorded in Searles’ home studio, and is available now on on Soundcloud. Scroll down to listen, and keep an eye out for Jonathan Something’s forthcoming full-length debut, An American Character.