Immediately alluring for its riff-led sense of melody, and promising increasing anticipation from the outset, Jason Maxwell blends heartfelt country songwriting with multi-layered organic pop production, for this uplifting yet revealing and deeply moving single.
Featuring refreshingly accessible vocals, keeping the focus on the catchy progression of the tune and the story and scenes at hand – rather than simply on the performer – For Now gifts the listener an appreciation for the moment, whilst prompting consideration of loved ones and perhaps even the one that got away.
The songwriting is brilliant – despite the familiarities of a timeless set-up, Maxwell ensures originality with this whole theme and the development of the concept. The way the hook resolves and the overall implication, the way For Now as a phrase falls into the lyrics, is really well-executed. ‘Is he good enough for you, or just good enough for now?’ feels authentically new yet vastly relevant.
Before this point in fact, there’s a defiant edge of poetic framing and metaphor to much of the writing, and increasingly this proves a calling card of the natural-born songwriter and singer. Even for the finishing quarter, the middle 8 sees the dynamic shift, the lyrics redirect towards our protagonist, wrapping things up with heart and style.
It’s a beautifully humble yet fitting performance, and the lyrics are elevated on this and indeed upon the strength of a finely-crafted soundscape – uniting a live-band arrangement with faultless production, for a release that naturally sounds good at volume.
Really nicely done, hopefully there’s plenty more music to follow.
Download or stream For Now here. Check out Jason Maxwell on Facebook, Instagram & TikTok.
