JACQ has unleashed a stripped down, emotive, raw yet powerful rendition of the song Starlight by (the more well-known band) Muse.

Featuring some haunting but grabbing piano playing and JACQ‘s memorable, passionate vocal performance which tugs at every single emotional string possible during the track’s 3 minute and 12 second duration makes the JACQ version of Starlight is a definite winner!

I prefer this version over Muse’s. I really mean that.

If you’re familiar with the original, expect to hear the predictable blend of sounds expected by mainstream alternative rock. However, click play on JACQ‘s version and be prepared for a kidnapping of your sensory system as a man with his voice and some hypnotic piano finessing proves simplification and minimalism can be more powerful than some electric guitars connected to 4×12 amp stacks (or whatever Muse used in the original recording).

About his cover, JACQ states,

I loved the song from the moment I heard it. The emotion is so raw and not the surface, with such a beautiful melody. I’ve always been a fan of Muse and it was fascinating to me to simplify the song and really focus on the lyric. It really taps into the experience of missing someone and questioning why you’re doing something if it takes you away from who you love.”

JACQ on stripping down Starlight by Muse

JACQ is the solo singer/songwriter alias of Grammy winning producer and artist Rich Jacques who was worked in a wide range of musical styles with a wide variety of talent. With JACQ, Rich aims to step away from the overly polished and rather large productions of his past using only a few basic elements to provide a space for intimate conversations through his lyrical and musical creations.

Listen to Starlight by JACQ below or connect on Soundcloud.

You can also find JACQ on Spotify.