For over a decade, alt-J has carved out a unique space in indie rock, known for its intricate arrangements and distinctive vocals. Now, frontman Joe Newman is embarking on a solo venture, stepping outside the band’s established sound with a project that’s both unexpected and deeply personal. Under the moniker JJerome87, Newman has released his debut single, “Brush Me Like a Horse,” a track that signals a deliberate shift towards a cinematic, “acid western” aesthetic. This marks a significant moment in Newman’s career, offering a glimpse into his individual artistic vision and a new chapter for one of indie music’s most intriguing acts.
The song’s release is accompanied by a striking music video, directed by longtime collaborator alex takács. Takács describes the project as an exploration of identity and punishment, framing the song as “an acid western about a man condemned to die in a cruel, humiliating public spectacle.” The core concept, Newman shared with takács, revolved around the image of a state execution carried out on a treadmill – a jarring and unsettling visual that immediately sparked a broader narrative. “In Joe’s songwriting, the images are layered and nested inside one another,” takács explained, “a man is accused, the accused is a horse, the horse is a mouse in a field where cats roam.”
Newman himself elaborates on the song’s central metaphor, describing “Brush Me Like a Horse” as “the story of a man slowly turning into a horse.” This transformation isn’t literal, he clarifies, but rather a commentary on how perception can shift, and how a person’s identity can be altered by the way they are seen and treated by others. “This metamorphosis has the world around him forgetting who he is as people begin to care for him more and more like a horse,” Newman explained. He draws a connection to a personal experience, noting the song was “inspired partly by something I’d seen a friend go through. They didn’t turn into a horse, but their reputation went through a metamorphosis.”
A Californian Soundscape
The sonic landscape of “Brush Me Like a Horse” represents a departure from some of alt-J’s more electronically-driven work, leaning instead into a warmer, more organic palette. The track was recorded in Los Angeles with producer Carlos De La Garza, known for his work with artists like Paramore and St. Vincent. De La Garza helped Newman cultivate a sound that draws inspiration from a diverse range of genres, including Motown, blues, and gospel. This blend, combined with alt-J’s signature off-kilter melodic sensibilities, creates a sound that feels both expansive and intimately personal. A trio of female backing vocalists and a carefully selected cast of session musicians further enrich the track’s texture and depth.
De La Garza’s influence is evident in the song’s emphasis on live instrumentation and a more traditional song structure, while still retaining the experimental edge that defines Newman’s songwriting. The result is a track that feels both familiar and refreshingly new, showcasing Newman’s versatility as a musician and his willingness to explore uncharted territory. The song’s layered vocals and intricate arrangements echo the complexity of alt-J’s work, but with a newfound sense of spaciousness and emotional vulnerability.
Alt-J’s Current Status and Newman’s Solo Path
The release of “Brush Me Like a Horse” comes as alt-J enters a period of relative quiet. The band released their fourth studio album, The Dream, in February 2022, which received generally positive reviews. AllMusic described the album as “a fascinating, if occasionally frustrating, listen.” Following the album’s release, alt-J embarked on a tour that concluded in December 2023, and has not announced any immediate plans for new music or live performances.
Newman’s decision to pursue a solo project under the JJerome87 moniker allows him to explore creative avenues that might not fit within the framework of alt-J. It’s a move that reflects a growing trend among established artists to branch out and experiment with different sounds and styles. While alt-J remains active, Newman’s solo work offers fans a deeper insight into his individual artistic process and a glimpse of what the future might hold.
The “Acid Western” Influence
The “acid western” descriptor applied to “Brush Me Like a Horse” is particularly intriguing. The term, popularized in the late 1960s and early 1970s, refers to a subgenre of Western films that incorporate psychedelic elements, surreal imagery, and often, a critique of traditional Western tropes. Films like El Topo (1970) and Zachariah (1971) are prime examples of this style. Newman’s embrace of this aesthetic suggests a desire to subvert expectations and create a soundscape that is both familiar and unsettling. The influence extends beyond the lyrical content, permeating the song’s instrumentation and overall atmosphere.
The choice to frame the song within this genre as well speaks to a broader cultural fascination with the American West and its enduring mythology. The Western has long been a fertile ground for exploring themes of identity, morality, and the clash between civilization and wilderness. Newman’s interpretation of the genre, filtered through a modern, psychedelic lens, offers a fresh perspective on these timeless themes.
JJerome87’s debut single is a bold and intriguing statement, signaling a willingness to experiment and push creative boundaries. Newman’s solo work promises to be a fascinating exploration of sound and identity, offering a new dimension to the artistry that has already captivated audiences worldwide. Further releases under the JJerome87 name are anticipated, and fans will be eager to see how this new project evolves.
As of now, no further release dates or tour plans have been announced for JJerome87. Fans can stay updated on Newman’s solo work through his official social media channels and the Mushroom Group/Virgin Music websites. The next step will likely be the release of additional singles or an EP, building momentum towards a potential full-length album.
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