While the country is in turmoil and everything seems to be more bust than boom, it is always a positive thing to seek out something good about our green isle. A wonderful element of our country is that, from the very early years, it has been steeped in talent and you do not have to look far to come across a group of talented young people. Jones Apollo are without a doubt one of these talented collectives that make the bad things seem less significant, even if only for a short time. They are a relatively new band hailing from Swords, Dublin, having formed in 2010 and this year sees the release of their EP Take It Away; A four track offering which is likely to find its way into the music collections of many Indie music lovers.
The EP might not gain a lot of radio play, but judging by the generally unconventional sound, that is not the purpose of this release. Each song is a somewhat average treat to the ears as Jones Apollo adopt an intonation fans of the Irish unsigned music scene will be familiar with; Simple, yet effective chords, alternating harmonies and a beat to which you could get away with dancing. It is a formula which seems to have worked for the band so far, having generated a steady fan base over the past year and a half.
Take It Away, is the most noteworthy track of the four, giving an indication as to why the EP was given the same title. With a delicate build up, lamenting lyrics and a chorus worthy of a sing-song, it is one that is sure to be a hit among a live audience. There is nothing complex about the song, instead it is composed of heartfelt yet plain lyrics and a fittingly sluggish drum beat, given its unfortunate subject of whom we can assume is a former or potential lover moving on. It is by no means the most catchiest on the EP, but it is certainly the most moving and the one most likely to be a fan favourite. Another track worthy of mention is See You; A catchy number, sure to get you swaying along to the slow beat and wonderful bass-line, and it is clear from this particular song that Jones Apollo have taken some influence from another, slightly better known Dublin band, U2.
On a serious note, this EP is but the beginning of a musical career for this young band, it has elements with which we are very much familiar, particularly from the Dublin music scene. This fact does not take away from the positive charm exuded from the EP as a result of its absorbing simplicity and clear youthful innocence. Both the music and the musicians have plenty of time to grow and build on the already pleasant music this EP has to offer.
Jones Apollo’s EP Take It Away is available as free download on Bandcamp.