John Keek’s “If + When” is a bright, skin-tingling swirl of sax magic

As you listen to John Keek’s “If + When,” it feels like the song is slowly and gently crawling up your spine — and then it beautifully bursts when it gets to your chest. It’s the latest from the now-Los Angeles-based saxophonist — who’s, of late, been opening for and playing with King Krule. Keek's new song, premiering today on The FADER, is comprised of a skin-tingling wave of bright piano and gentle vocal harmonies, all culminating in a stunning swirl of horns, sax, and drums. This is the kind of song you want to play on repeat as you take that walk for no reason on a nice fall day.

“‘If + When’ is the first song I wrote when I moved to L.A. from Vegas,” Keeks shared with The FADER over email. “It’s about uncertainty, and the experience of not knowing how to end past relationships.” Listen below.