Singer-songwriter Jay Brannan (“Soda Shop”) returns with this video for “Beautifullly,” from his second LP. Here, Brannan abandons the whisper-quiet arrangements he began his career with, incorporating a lush array of strings, clavinets, and percussion, as well as a subtle country influence, into his vocal-heavy sound.

The track, like much of Brannan’s work, draws heavily from artists who put out a lot of their best work before he was even born: Dylan, Hall & Oates, Simon & Garfunkel (and here, a touch of Dolly Parton or Porter Wagoner); but as always his main influences remain the softer side of the 90s: Alanis Morissette, Jewel, Liz Phair, and Tori Amos.

We love this song. If you like any of the artists we’ve listed, we think you might love it, too. The video is also very nicely done: complementing Brannan’s unusual choice to sing from the perspective of a woman who’s been stuck in the “friend zone,” we’re able to watch the story play out before our eyes in a tasteful, restrained way which complements the song without being overbearing.

Visit our Jay Brannan page to learn more about the artist, including ticket and touring information.