Vermont native Syd is a super talented singer/songwriter who knows his way around a musical hook or two. Sounding like a hybrid of Rivers Cuomo (Weezer) and Joe Jackson on his new EP “Upswing,” the big twang of “The Big Town” is a smart quirky single with a sing along chorus. Fans of Johnny Polonsky’s first album will find a few similarities here as well. After starting his career as a John Mayer styled pop folkie, he’s pulled on over to the power pop side. The highlight here is “Mallory” with hand claps and a high falsetto in the chorus that helps this single jump out of the speaker at you. The other two tracks ( “Easier On You” and “The Pattern” here are standouts as well, with catchy melodic refrains and a strong beat. This is pure pop sweetness and even though it’s only four tracks, it’s superior to other bands’ full length releases and again this is a FREE download people! GET THIS NOW. You’ll thank me after you hear it.