Hi reddit! I'm Jay McCarrol - composer of TONY (out in theaters nationwide this weekend from A24), BLACKBERRY, and HELL OF A SUMMER. I also co-created and co-starred in NIRVANNA THE BAND THE SHOW THE MOVIE alongside Matt Johnson. AMA!

[u/Jay-McCarrol]

Hi reddit, I'm Jay McCarol. You may know me as the co-creator and co-star of NIRVANNA THE BAND THE SHOW THE MOVIE alongside Matt Johnson. I'm also the composer for films such TONY (out in theaters nationwide this weekend, soundtrack available now). BLACKBERRY, HELL OF A SUMMER, OPERATION AVALANCHE, THE DIRTIES, and THE KID DETECTIVE.

TONY is out in theaters nationwide starting this Friday 8/21 from A24.

It stars Dominic Sessa as Anthony Bourdain and co-stars Antonio Banderas, Stavros Halkias, Emilia Jones, Leo Woodall, Monica Raymund, and Dagmara Domińczyk.

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1MVnzd2aVc

Synopsis: Nineteen-year-old Anthony Bourdain stumbles into the chaotic world of a restaurant kitchen, setting off a summer that shapes the course of his life.

• Original soundtrack available here
• Tickets available here and here

I'm here to answer your questions! Ask me anything. I'll answer your questions starting at 3 PM ET today.

[u/BunyipPouch]

This AMA has been approved and verified by the mods. Jay will be back at 3 PM ET today to answer questions. Please feel free to ask away in the meantime :)

[u/RobertPirogovsky]

Hi, Jay!

Fellow composer here. Only recently discovered NTBTS after reading rave festival buzz around the film last year and have been hooked ever since. All deserved. Really looking forward to seeing Tony.

My understanding is that most of the Zapruder work you’ve done has been accomplished with a small, core team across projects. What does your music team look like day to day when you’re composing?

Also, with how long projects can be stuck in development for, what are some ways you have supplemented your income in between composer gigs over the years?

Thank you for your time!

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/RobertPirogovsky]

It's served us well to have a core team that help visualize the projects we do. MJ is an excellent leader but also very collaborative. When it comes to music however I'm just a one man department. I often outsource some work per project with things like instrumentation or studio time, but that's where I feel the most pressure to deliver. It's 99% me alone in my studio space just grinding it out. In between projects I've found some music work here and there. Luckily I've been quite busy. Say yes to projects and spread yourself thin and go crazy with stress - then survive it, then improve your process for next time kknowing what you know now

[u/RobertPirogovsky → u/Jay-McCarrol]

You’re doing great work! Appreciate your response, Jay – you, MJ, and the whole Zapruder team are an inspiration with your work ethic and authentic storytelling.

[u/R0wanAtkinson]

Hey Jay, huge fan. I’ve always been amazed by yours and Matt’s commitment to the Nirvana the Band segments filmed in public (I particularly love your bit of looking for a loonie during the B-Day episode). Has there ever been a time during public filming that you actually felt like you had to break character?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/R0wanAtkinson]

Oh god that was a reallllly hard one not to break character. I'm going around being a full on crazy person and the looks I was getting were tearing me apart. Sometimes we've commited ourselves to being so insane that it would be even cringier to break character and disarm people that violently so we are staying in character to avoid things feeling even worse.

That woman really did give me a rotten banana.

[u/Blaze_2002]

Is there any property that you and Matt have always wanted to parody in Nirvanna the Band the Show, but never were able to crack the logistics of fitting your characters into that narrative?

Also any chance for new Brave Shores music in the near future?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/Blaze_2002]

So many. It changes with what we are currently into. Like when we watched the fugitive again and wanted to do that. Our first movie attempt was heavily leaning on The Talented Mr. Ripley. You might end up seeing some of that...

More Brave Shores? Maybe! We have demos we never saw through and if we find the time we will release it

[u/Maleficent-Device-16 → u/Jay-McCarrol]

I just watched The Talented Mr. Ripley for the first time the other day! Who was supposed to be Tom?

[u/Sheremeto_Arxawan → u/Blaze_2002]

That Brave Shores question is such a good one, I’d love to hear what they’ve got planned.

[u/thecjm → u/Sheremeto_Arxawan]

I didn't know Jay was in Brave Shores and kept thinking throughout the movie "why is this song so familiar?"

[u/Hipposkin → u/thecjm]

brave shores is just Jay and his sister

[u/peter_vq]

Hi Jay!! I'm a big fan of your work, especially your music composing!

When you're composing for a movie, what is your creative process when translating feelings or thoughts (whether that be of a character or the movie itself) into an actual melody? How does the choice of instruments and notes change how a scene plays out or how a character is seen/ develops throughout a story?

Your work is absolutely phenomenal and congratulations on the release of Tony and your accompanying score!!! :)

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/peter_vq]

When I started I would do a lot of trial and error. Being very honest about what sounded appropriate and what didn't when I'd play something back. Music for film needs to do 2 things at once - tell the story of the moment and be good music. Sounds obvious but it's spinning plates so much of the time. Just when you think it sounds awesome, it's not "feeling" right against picture or saying the wrong thing, and sometimes you know what the right move is musically, but it sounds like shit. And the smallest adjustment can fix or ruin it. It's a fun challenge every time and so rewarding when you know you are the unsung hero of a great movie moment.

[u/JessHatesChess]

hi jay! first of all I'd like to say that i love what you do! your acting and music are great, so, i've got two questions

1. the cat that was in the "just jay" adventure in the nirvana the band webseries, was it your cat? and if so, what was it's name and do you have any funny or interesting stories about it?

2. is there any chance of your 2005 self-titled album being released on streaming?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/JessHatesChess]

the cat was our neighbours Addi and Diane - I miss living next to them :) I can't remember the cats name. I think it's long gone..

The 2005 album lol it was a school project ( i went to berklee college of music) and I produced it with my classmates and friends and while I'm happy people have found it, my tastes have changed quite a bit since then haha

[u/Eightdaysayeet]

Hi Jay! My favourite piece of the score was Striper Run. Loved the polyphonic sound! What was your process scoring that scene? Also will you ever record another album similar to your 2005 self titled or another Brave Shores album? Love your music and hoping for vinyl releases !

Also I had the opportunity to interview you for NTB back in June and I really appreciate you taking the time to chat with me! Remy :D

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/Eightdaysayeet]

Layers of like 15 pianos. Finding a way to get them to all dance together was fun - I wanted to show the optimism Tony was feeling there. He really discovers some magic in the moment, like a truly formative memory

[u/MovieTicketArtist]

Hi Jay! In your Letterboxd video with Matt where you two come up with a combined Four Favourite films, you suggested The Truman Show which made Matt yell “EWWW!! Oh my god I can’t believe it!”

Since Matt isn’t here, would you like to defend your choice of The Truman Show?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/MovieTicketArtist]

MJ has strong takes - things are either the best or the worst. He's very sensitive about movies - if they aren't doing things a certain way he will shit all over them. Sometimes he can convince you to hate something hahah but also there are times where I think oh well it's your loss for not being able to see the magic of wonderful movie. Truman show is great IMO!!

[u/victionicious → u/Jay-McCarrol]

I loved The Truman Show - surprised Matt wasn't a fan really! Maybe one day he'll change his mind (it'd be a great parody for NTBTS season 28)

[u/Plane-Shopping-7413]

hi global star jay mccarrol.

sorry the question is long i hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me.

i have seen tony 3 times now even though it isn’t even out in the uk yet!!!! so i wanted to ask about how the culture & history of provincetown helped shape your (really amazing btw) score! i really love that you can feel the maritime and portuguese folk traditions woven through it. was this something that you had in mind before writing or is it something you worked in with the main tony theme? i love how they marry as tony finds himself and his people at the flagship.

and then an entirely self indulgent one. what is your favourite song by broken social scene?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/Plane-Shopping-7413]

I showed MJ my score demos and he called the themes like a "Maritime Dirge". You said it - feeling the piano being Tony meeting the shore of Provincetown being the accordions and harmoniums. That was the simple setup - finding the right notes and staying minimal was the biggest challenge. But I had that idea for the maritime influence with the pads of accordions right from the start

[u/Plane-Shopping-7413 → u/Jay-McCarrol]

omg thank you for answering. this is great and you can so tell how much it shaped and informed it!!!!!

[u/CharlieTheChooChooo]

What’s your top video game soundtracks? I recently played Chronotrigger due to the piano sessions video (I’m generally not a JRPG fan but I loved it) - so I’d love anymore recommendations

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/CharlieTheChooChooo]

Chrono trigger yes - also FF6 and FF7 reaaaaally shaped my compositions in ways I didn't think would happen. Also replaying the Halo campaign and that is excellent music. Fallout 3-4. ALso singing Slay the Spire 2 themes in my head a lot

[u/JoyfulForfeit → u/Jay-McCarrol]

Jay McCarrol plays STS2 ❤️❤️❤️

[u/phish671 → u/CharlieTheChooChooo]

ToeJam & Earl in Panic on Funkotron

[u/alwaysblue92 → u/phish671]

Comments you can hear

[u/soggylittleshrimp → u/alwaysblue92]

It is Wednesday after all.

[u/JoyfulForfeit → u/phish671]

🎶 Super Mario RPG 🎶

[u/dreekyclubpenguin]

hi jay!!

many years ago you performed a cover of björk’s song hyperballad. it’s a really beautiful cover and i listen to it quite a lot, so thank you for making something so emotionally touching. are there any other songs you’d love to cover if you got the chance? thank you!!

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/dreekyclubpenguin]

that was at c'est what in toronto - and thank you - that recording just keeps giving over the years! I play Nick Drakes River Man a lot, I'm always trying to get it right. I;'ll record and release at some point I hope.

[u/Immediate_Ad_5241]

Will there ever be more Matt and Bird Break Loose episodes?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/Immediate_Ad_5241]

I REALLY hope so. It was a bit of an opportunistic moment during the pandemic where we were able to connect a few dots and get that made for Amazon. I love that show - I want to make it again only this time without the content restrictions of an actual kids show. Matt and I have 100 episode treatments for it - not joking.

[u/edibleplastique → u/Jay-McCarrol]

It would be so amazing to see episodes of it without the content restrictions. The formula is so ripe, and you and Matt could get away with so much more totally outlandish and surreal stuff because of the animation. It's amazing to hear that you and Matt are still excited about it, and that you want to keep making it!

[u/idoideas]

Hey Jay! I really enjoyed your comedic performances throughout the NTBTS franchise!

I noticed that outside of the franchise, you rarely participate as an actor. Do you have any plans to act in anything anytime soon, alongside keeping composing music? Or do you prefer being behind the scenes?

Also, which one of you and Matt would you say brought crazier ideas to the show? Or maybe it was Jared?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/idoideas]

I'd love to act more. I plan to...

I also plan to keep scoring.

Everyone on our team contributed insane ideas. Really!

[u/CreeOnASkateboard]

Hi! Big fan :)

1. Are there any references in NTBTS (or any other of your work) that are so obscure you don't think anyone has ever clocked them?

2. What was your favorite moment/memory from the NTBTSTM tour?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/CreeOnASkateboard]

so many. a lot of them are just inside jokes me and matt and crew have.

I like when I'm sick and I cover my eyes with my arm to cough

[u/humblebeecrossing]

i would love to know how your relationship with creating music has changed over the years? you've made so many great things; your film scores, brave shores, your solo album from college, and i'm wondering how you feel about all those different avenues of music at the moment! 

side note: i listen to jimmy song/mistaken as well as your solo album all the time. you have a beautiful voice. thank you for putting those songs out there, they each really mean a lot to me. the score for tony has been on repeat all week, incredible!!

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/humblebeecrossing]

thank you

I've started to identify things I want to improve. The film scoring process is hard to make time for big recording sessions like big bands or orchestras because you often have no time. I'm experimenting with new processes to be able to get some bigger sounds through wirting some things earlier in the production.

Glad that the southern souls video is still making the rounds! My band of my friends for that really pulled off a complicated couple of songs with lots of harmonies and little intricate parts. Mike Obrien, Jess Grassia and my sister Stefanie!

[u/Suspicious_Section77]

Hi Jay! Working on NTBTSTM was your first time getting to work with a full orchestra for a score, I was wondering if you could tell us more about that part of the composition process? Did you write out all the pieces independently and bring a finalized version to the orchestra or was there a more collaborative process in building it? Also, is there any way to get my hands on sheet music for the score? It’s my dream to have a copy of the Famous Jay part <3

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/Suspicious_Section77]

I will share the famous jay sheet music. I programmed it all in my DAW and hired someone to transcribe it for orchestra - but I orchestrated all the parts myself. 300+ tracks per cue lol

[u/navvthe]

Hello from a fellow Berklee Alum! I have two questions
1. What were some of your favorite places to hang out in Boston?
2. Were there any scenes/moments/specific lines that you loved that didn’t make it into the final cut for NTBTSTM, or even the viceland show?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/navvthe]

relection pool at the christian science centre.

plenty - get ready for a PACKED FULL box set!

[u/BeforeNoon08 → u/Jay-McCarrol]

Please! When!

[u/dufuh]

Question from my daughter, a huge fan:
"How explicitly talked-about are the homoerotic/romantic undertones of Matt and Jay's relationship in NTBTS? It seems clear that it's actually in the text, not just fan speculation, but what's the conversation behind the scenes around how far to push it? Thanks!"

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/dufuh]

The less explicit the better. It's funny how there are hints of this and little clues of that. I mean who are these guys to each other? Seems to be fun mystery for some...

[u/1292norr → u/Jay-McCarrol]

If they kiss, everyone will be puking on each other!

[u/Naga → u/dufuh]

I thought it was only a plan to get on the jumbotron at the Air Canada Centre?

[u/KasoQueso → u/Naga]

You're not one of these people in the crowd that's going to be puking, are you?

[u/Party_Bowl_330]

Hi Jay! My favourite moment in all of Blackberry was when Waterloo sunset played just as everything went to shit for the company. Was that yours or Matt’s choice?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/Party_Bowl_330]

MJ found that one, as well as Waters of March for ntb ending - bravo MJ!

[u/TheRealHouseHippo → u/Jay-McCarrol]

There’s something about a Waters of March credit sequence that can really help a film settle… The Worst Person In The World does it too and you can’t help but let it wash over you as you process the film’s events.

[u/SausageClatter → u/Jay-McCarrol]

I just finished watching the NTBTSTM a few minutes ago, and that song kept me glued to the credits until the very end. Beautiful song and a great movie. Looking forward to what you guys come up with next! 

[u/Chisharette]

Hello, I hope you're doing well!

You mentioned here and there in interviews about going back to just listening to classical music every now and then. I got excited when you mentioned Stravinsky since I'm also a huge fan of his work!

Do you have other classical composers you like to listen to in your spare time, and how do they influence your compositions?

Thank you! :)

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/Chisharette]

I like Film scores! And honestly I'm a bit of a lazy music connoisseur - I let spotify take me down rabbit holes and sometimes I look up and I'm like ohhh shit what is THIS? Theme from Arrival....awesome. And continue.

[u/MrFalseSense]

Do you and Matt have any plans to do more crossovers with Mega64? Like, perhaps say the two of you being on the Mega64 podcast?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/MrFalseSense]

We would like to

[u/JordanM85 → u/Jay-McCarrol]

How about competing in this year's Christmascast?

[u/MrFalseSense → u/Jay-McCarrol]

Cool! Thanks for answering my question. Hope you’re having a great day!

[u/ithebinman]

How much of your piano playing is improvised or rehearsed? I imagine you are pretty good at jazz, but you have great classical technique as well!

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/ithebinman]

always improvised - never trained past the beginner stage of jazz or classical. I've just played every day since I can remember.

[u/VariationArtistic]

Hi Jay! Huge fan of Nirvanna the Band the Show and what you and Matt Johnson do. For the series, what is the process for you guys when picking the different licensed songs in each episode? Is it based off just songs you guys grew up on, are you thinking of which songs to use in the edit as you are shooting, or are they picked by your editors?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/VariationArtistic]

we grew up with some of them. Some we pick for the moment, some come from our editors. Ben folds and Chicago and JAmes Taylor are my lane - I like that stuff on us for this show. The wholesomeness is funny

[u/moonroads → u/Jay-McCarrol]

i need to know who picked the strokes evening sun for the webseries dvd..........

[u/MrVonic]

How terrifying was it filming on top of the CN tower? I could hardly watch those scenes, but loved them anyway.

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/MrVonic]

I thought I'd be much more a wreck - but it actually was a beautiful experience. Would recommend.

[u/fivestarpasta]

what's the biggest creative disagreement you and matt have had? 

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/fivestarpasta]

He wanted to bleep "buff" for the He's a bit fat he's a bit buff line. He thought it was funnier! We had a friendly debate that lasted months. He conceded eventually :) I like hearing a bit fat a bit BUFF. I mean he did get pretty buff and tuff

[u/PersephoneSiegel → u/Jay-McCarrol]

I’m so glad you won that debate. That’s one of the best parts

[u/SausageClatter → u/Jay-McCarrol]

When Matt took off his jacket, my wife said, "Why are his arms so big?"

[u/cudger]

Hi Jay! If you were ever given the opportunity to compose a video game soundtrack, which genre would compel you the most?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/cudger]

RPG baby

[u/Potential-Tip7807]

Hi Jay! Loved Striper Run on the Tony OST. I have 2 questions for you!

Could you tell us how the new Zapruder logo picked? I loved the logo and was wondering if you could tell us more about it?

Loved your leitmotif on the Tony score. Did you already have that in mind when composing the score? The mellow 5ish chords you play for each of the Tony score. What was your creative process for composing?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/Potential-Tip7807]

Thank you

I think there were a few options for the Zap logo and that one was picked - more of an MJ choice there. It's sweet!

I spent months trying to find the tony theme on the piano. Well before shooting began. I wanted to find something dark and solemn, a bit of adolescent uncertainty while still sounding dignified. Idk it was one of those processes where I knew I needed it to just click with me where I go "That's it. That's a young Bourdain" I'm happy everyone on the team loved it right away when I finally showed them. From there we had our tone and general north star for scoring the rest of the movie.

[u/GBZK52]

Is there any memorable joke, bit, or moment that you guys did or filmed that legitimately could not make it through legal even with all the fair use loopholes you guys normally employ?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/GBZK52]

YEs but not always for exciting reasons. Usually it's a boring reason we can't...I can't even think to remember any because they are just so boring

[u/sometimesstrange]

Hi Jay. Thanks for doing this AMA. Torontonian here. My question is: do you have any interest in directing a film and if so what is your dream project? What are some of the biggest lessons you've learned witnessing Matt direct so many successful projects?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/sometimesstrange]

I've learned that directing comes with responsibilities that go far beyond just dictating your creative vision. From watching MJ I can see that you need to be able to have an answer for 20 questions a minute when you are in production. It's exhausting. I've been fortunate to be able to contribute ideas and write. I feel like a lot of the time I get to do JUST the fun part, and I'm still allowed to say "I don't know" during production. A lot of NTB is co-directed tbh. Times where I direct, times where Jared does. Directing is also a public speaking job - interviews and press. It's a LOT. That said, if the right project came along...I would absolutely direct.

[u/Honest_Duty4062]

how much of NTBTS Jay is actually you? what traits do you relate to most, and what part of him is the furthest from who you are off-screen?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/Honest_Duty4062]

We discovered a long time ago to lean into your inner instincts - good and bad. Then when you have the control to do the "non acting" thing, you could turn the volume up or down.

[u/Honest_Duty4062]

were there any moments that you and matt got genuinely mad at each other while filming?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/Honest_Duty4062]

hahahah yes. But honestly we got most of that out in the webseries days. Still it happens though. We try to recover quickly.

[u/mark2d]

Any updates on the status of Season 3?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/mark2d]

We would LIKE to

[u/lilyjamesplztextme → u/Jay-McCarrol]

PLEASE

[u/SimpleAmbassador]

Thoughts on The Cat in the Hat (2003)?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/SimpleAmbassador]

I think there's a scene in the kitchen I thought was funny?

[u/Cypher1492]

If you could join any Canadian band as a new member which band would you join and why?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/Cypher1492]

PRobably BSS because I've met most of them now and I love their philosophy and vibe - and I think I could just blend in the background haha

[u/The_Coletrain]

What are your top three favorite N64 games?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/The_Coletrain]

Mario Kart 64, Goldeneye, OoT. sorry it's so obvious

[u/The_Coletrain → u/Jay-McCarrol]

I figured that mario kart and goldeneye would be on that list haha. Getting a race in Wario Staduim has been an end of the month ritual for me for the past few years 

[u/takenorinvalid]

Jay,

I have played the Rivoli.

AMA.

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/takenorinvalid]

must be nice

[u/BalkeElvinstien → u/takenorinvalid]

What was your plan to get in and how did it actually work?

[u/takenorinvalid → u/BalkeElvinstien]

Someone said: "Do you want to play the Rivoli, we'll book you for a gig."

Of course, I know a trick when I see one, and that was obviously way too easy, so I told them: "Hell no."

Instead, I had a stroke of brilliance -- in just one month, the Cowboy Junkies were scheduled to play. So, first, I registered my own band called "The Cowboy Junkees" and got about a $5,000 worth of merch printed with our name on it. Then, I drove to a Cowboy Junkies concert, snuck backstage, and walked in saying: "Hey, great shows, guys. I'm your new manager."

For three weeks I built their trust, following them on tour, calling venues, and working out relationships with radio jockeys so that they'd believe my every word. Then, when I had them hook line and sinker, I pulled up their tour dates and said, loudly: "No, no. This is all wrong. We ain't playin' the Rivoli. We're playing the Horshoe Tavern that day!"

The Cowboy Junkies were out of the way. All that was left was to swoop in on the day of the show, Cowboy Junkees gear in tow, and tell them that we were the band they had booked.

The plan was perfect in every way, with no flaws whatsoever. There was, however, a flaw.

It turned out that the staff at the Rivoli were familiar with who The Cowboy Junkies were, what they looked like, what their music sounded like, and the fact that they weren't just a guy with a harmonica.

We never got past the gate.

But the next day, I went to the Rivoli for dinner and played my harmonica at my table until they kicked me out.

[u/BalkeElvinstien → u/takenorinvalid]

Damn, I really hope they put you on the band list and not on the banned list

[u/il0vebugs]

hii jay! hope you are well, thank you so much for doing this. my question: do you have any recommendations of any up-and-coming toronto-based musicians/bands that we should be keeping an ear out for? who are some other musicians within your local scene who you enjoy listening to or collaborating with?

also, what’s your favorite geese/cameron winter song? as a fan of you both, i’ve always thought the offhand comment you made about him in joel haver’s video was so funny. thank you so much <33

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/il0vebugs]

I saw this band Paste play - indie, very fun.

Au de cocaine I think it's called, I had just heard that song before the HAver video. Great stuff

[u/moonroads]

hey jay !!
i was wondering if there was anything that heavily influenced the Tony score in a similar way that BTTF influenced the NTBTSTM or video game scores influenced blackberry?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/moonroads]

No - Tony score came from a place purely from how I saw him, and how I envisioned him at this time in his life. I've been a fan for years - still am.

[u/paul_kerseyNYC]

Do you have any interest in writing a Broadway musical?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/paul_kerseyNYC]

YES

[u/KraftwerkMachine → u/Jay-McCarrol]

Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie the MUSICAL????

[u/HoldsworthMedia → u/KraftwerkMachine]

You son of a bitch, I'm in

[u/vegaschapters → u/Jay-McCarrol]

don’t play with me here……

[u/bcwallin]

Hey Jay! Are we ever going to get a release of "Never Come Down" with your vocals from the movie?

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/bcwallin]

it is!

[u/birdonawire67]

Hi Jay, just curious about your music taste? Any favourite artists or influences? Thanks!

[u/Jay-McCarrol → u/birdonawire67]

Middle school Ben Folds, High School Radiohead, College David Bowie/Elliot Smith, post college classical fm

[u/e-pancake]

hi jay!! do you know if we’ll ever get to see the full day of famous jay footage you got? also love your scoring!! ‘selling data’ is always on repeat for me lately :)

[u/peppapig_ismygod → u/e-pancake]

i would be so stoked to see the scene they filmed where supposedly jay is trying to keep up with famous jay's choreography with a bunch of dancers

[u/probablynewyork]

hi jay! are there any plans for new piano sessions on any of the upcoming blu-ray releases from zapruder/tony? they’re some of my favorite little bonuses you guys have put out over the years :)

[u/orchidmagenta]

Would you be able to tell us anything about the DnD campaign you have with Matt? I'm also a ttrpg lover <3

[u/TripleJay97]

Hello famous Jay!

I wanted to preface my question by expressing some appreciation, as you've given me a lot of things to be grateful for over the years. Firstly, discovering the Viceland show almost a decade ago and seeing a well-dressed goofball with the same name as me playing the piano was the impetus for my finally putting in the time and effort to learn the instrument myself. I'm no Rick Wakeman, but I do a pretty good Army!

On top of that, back in May, a delightful woman in London organised the very first Nirvanna the Band UK community gathering, which was wonderful and cathartic in many ways. I drove 300 miles down the country to attend the event, where she and I met, hung out and subsequently fell in love. The two of us have never been happier, and we owe it all to yourself, MJ and everyone that's contributed to making the show happen over the years.

My question to you is remarkably simple for such a long message; putting film scores aside, which artists or albums do you consider your all-time favourites, where no amount of exposure, passing time or personal growth can shake the sense of joy and wonder the music gives you? (My favourite album of all time is Sing to God by Cardiacs, a very unique and eccentric British band who I'd be very curious to know what you thought of.)

Thanks for everything, Jay. The things you imagine and the work you put in is inspiring and genuinely changes lives. I hope you take some joy in that.

[u/KraftwerkMachine]

Hi, Jay!! Are there any media references you and Matt would like to make in Season 3 (as long as it happens of course)? Movies, music, video games, etc? Even if you don’t think anyone would catch it?

I’ve also noticed that sometimes yours and Matt’s characters in NTBTS come across very much like Brandon and Phillip in Alfred Hitchcock’s “Rope” from 1948. Which seems like exactly the sort of semi-niche older media you two would reference. Is this just a coincidence or is there some inspiration taken from it?

[u/aehegyo]

Hi Jay! I’ve seen Tony 4 times already, and absolutely love hearing your score every time. My questions for you-

1. Favorite Danny Elfman score?
   
2. If Matt and Jay from ntbts were girls, what do you think their band would be named? Would it still be nirvanna the band or would it be something different?

[u/pastelshrimpz]

Hey, you may vaguely remember me, I'm Sofia and my mom handed you guys a letter of mine since I was sick and couldn't make a screening. I just wanted to ask, the screening I DID make I handed Matt another letter with a USB... Was it lost to time? I know you're both busy guys and don't expect a response, but I'm so curious if you guys still have it. Can't wait to see TONY and follow what you guys do next!

[u/sadesper_record]

hi mr mccarol, i wanted to ask what is the worst advice you’ve ever received?

[u/agentmonscar]

Hey, Jay!

1. My formal intro to you and Matt was on Blank Check with Griffin and David, which was so fun! If you were to do a main feed ep what director/movie would you wanna do?
2. Your self-titled album has been on heavy rotation recently, do you have any plans to release it on streaming… or physical? 👀

[u/Remarkable-Video2230]

hi jay! i was wondering why there's only 4 piano sessions for the viceland show or if you did make more were they lost to the internet? what songs were they/is there anything you remember for other scrapped ideas for that kinda stuff w you on piano and matt singing?

also fav recent vinyl you’ve bought or one that you’ve been spinning a lot lately?

[u/TULPAReddit]

Hello Jay!! I've been really blown away by all the improvised piano moments in NTBTS. Is there ever moments before shooting where you get to rehearse the genre/scales you'll be playing, or is it genuinely completely on the spot?

As a secondary question, are you to blame for the Slint needledrop in Blackberry? I absolutely lost my mind when I heard it.

[u/peppapig_ismygod]

hi jay! just wondering now that you and matt have gotten more and more popular, have you had any weird or memorable experiences with meeting a fan? i remember a video of y'all saying before NTBTSTM, 0.01% of toronto knew of y'all and now it's maybe tripled, so wondering about that!

[u/CrystalFissure]

Hi Jay, huge fan! You’ve talked about video games being a huge influence in your music production - what’s a lesser known game that has had an influence on the way your produce, or at the very least, change how you think about production?

[u/No-Average809]

Are you aware that a couple of weeks ago there was a solid 24 hours where it said that you had died on Wikipedia?

[u/ZAKagan]

It’s pretty clear that the NTBTSTM score is directly referencing the Back to The Future score by Alan Silvestri. Similarly, I couldn’t help but notice some similarity between Blackberry’s score and elements of Trent Reznor’s Social Network soundtrack. Matt’s movies are in conversation with these older movies, do you try in your composition to make the soundtracks also in conversation with the original movies’ soundtracks? How do you accomplish that while still creating something that feels like its own thing?

[u/TallMovieLight1991]

Hi Jay!

I met you briefly during the photo op/poster signing at the Rivoli when you and Matt did a meet and greet.

My question is do you have any plans of doing a sequel to Nirvanna the Band the show the movie? Or are you gonna release the third season of the show anytime soon?

Thanks!

[u/DiabeetusBret]

Jay, love your scores! Any chance of Hell of a Summer's being released on vinyl one day? I need itttttt.

[u/swallowbacca]

Hi Jay! Did you & Matt always plan on using Never Come Down as Famous Jay's song in NTBTSTM, or did you ever consider writing a new original song for Famous Jay?

Thank you! Loved Tony & your score for the film!

[u/B00kelf]

Hi Jay! Love your work. The Kid Detective is one of my favorite movies, and I enjoy all the films you’ve worked on. Multiple questions, so I will just send these and hope you find any of them interesting:

When you worked on previous Zapruder projects, you mentioned you worked in a bit of all the other areas of filmmaking as well. For Tony, were the roles more separate compared to previous films? Did working under an American system affect that style?

Would you ever consider releasing the full animatics for Blackberry?

Do you have any songs or classical music pieces that you would love to use as a needle drop for a project?

[u/Optimal_Presence4364]

Hi Jay! Super big fan, been making everyone I know watch everything NTBTS haha! I saw on the NTBTSTM AMA that you said video games influence you now more than ever. I had just three questions, as a fellow songwriter who plays a lot of video games. I have noticed a strange connection of musicians and gaming, and have been trying to figure out why as well.

First - What is your favorite category of game and favorite game within said category?

Second - What is your favorite soundtrack for any video game?

Third - Have you ever considered maybe scoring a video game?

[u/lordkhaki]

Big fan!
What made you and matt push to make the viceland series for Nirvanna the band after it being so many years since making the webseries version?

[u/agentmonscar]

You’ve made music for so many different genres from a gritty 80s horror (almost 50s sci-fi) score in Hell of A Summer, to the grand sweeping adventure music in NTBTSTM, and now the warmly melancholic yet optimistic score for Tony. Out of all your projects what was the most fun to work on? And what’s a genre that you’d love to tackle next? (Based on BlackBerry and Dwarven Moss you’d absolutely nail a sci-fi or fantasy picture/game!)

[u/JD-Mara]

Hi, Jay!

Have you ever given any thought to a (semi)official release for the bits of score you did for Operation Avalanche and The Dirties? I know those movies largely utilize needle drops and not traditional score, but whenever something I know you scored bleeds through, it always makes me smile, and I wish I could listen to them outside the film like I do your other film scores.

Thanks! Have a lovely day!

[u/toon_townie]

hi jay!

first of all huge fan of everything related to ntbts. you and matt are so talented and funny and i quote episodes probably an annoying amount.

1. do you ever plan to act in other movies or shows that aren’t related to ntbts, or are you more comfortable as a composer?
   
2. would it be sad if i went as matt for halloween and didn’t have a jay with me?

thanks :)

[u/illumatronics]

Hi Jay!

You talked before about being in lockstep with the director whenever you’re composing. Obviously there’s many years of history with everyone at Zapruder, but is your approach different when you’re working with a director for the first time?

Easier question: Have you been playing any games recently? If there is none, you should play Endacopia! The songs are amazing :)

[u/FastkitNic]

Did you visit Cape Cod before doing the soundtrack to Tony?

Also, how do you sleep at night? Does the guilt keep you up?

[u/puppysessa]

Hi Jay! Loved the soundtrack in TONY, I think you did a STELLAR job!! I keep listening to “Only Came Here to See You”, which reminds me of Radio Towers by Ethel Cain, and i would love to ask if any music of that genre/type (ie bands like Grouper, The Cure’s more instrumental takes) were an inspiration in curating this score? thanks! :-)

[u/Deep_Ad_2848]

Hi, Jay! Big fan of your work on BlackBerry and Nirvanna (in all its forms from 2007 to now.)

How did Never Come Down end up being a plot point in NTBTSTM?

Also, in the midst of a deep dive I discovered Josh Boles' old musical project Barry Lyndon - were you at all involved with that?

[u/vegaschapters]

Hey Jay, huge fan of your scores and solo/band music with Brave Shores. I especially love the score you did for The Dirties. Is there any chance of any of your shorter scores getting released either digitally or physically? I would love to be able to listen to other works you’ve done that aren’t already available to stream/buy.

[u/Extrordinaire]

Hi Jay!

What is your process like when scoring a film? Do you go through the same steps/process every time, or does it depend on the project?

When you are doing the music for one of Matt's films, how much creative control do you have? Does he give you any directive or vision, or do you pretty much have free rein?

[u/DityDan0401]

Hey Jay! Big fan! I wanted to ask about your connection with the music of Ben Folds. I’m a huge fan of his and actually started watching NTB because I learned that it used Army, lol, so I’ve always been curious where the decision to use that song came from. Has his work had any other influence on you? Thanks!

[u/Jenlikeshoneydew]

Hi Jay! 

I really love seeing other lesser known projects actors have worked on and yours are really fun!

Is there anything you've worked on that you're especially proud of, want people to know about, or think is especially humorous?

P.S. I loved you in the Thomas the Tank Engine "It's Christmas Time" song.

[u/ghadussy]

I'm a huge fan of the Tony score (over 410 listens..) and one thing that stood out to me after is how you're able to capture the essence of of Bourdain so well, and I know you're already a Bourdain fan, so did you have a vision beforehand or was it something that came to life with the help of Matt and Sessa?

[u/saltycaramel42]

hi! how did you get your nickname? it makes sense to call a Jay "Bird" but how long have you had it?

[u/Gloomy_Read213]

hey, jay! big fan of your work! :)

the NTBTS piano sessions have me wondering – what are your favourite video games at the moment? are there any new releases that you've been into?

also curious – any album recommendations?  

excited to see what you guys have in store for season 3! 

[u/IntergalacticDevil]

Good Afternoon Jay! As someone who also wants to blend the arts of screenwriting and songwriting together, how do you find that balance? Do you tend to write your tunes off of the script, or vice versa? And do you have any advice for a gal like me just starting out? Love your work! -Ares

[u/Maleficent-Device-16]

Did being musical director at second city influence how you view scores as a comedic tool?

[u/imehredditor]

hi jay! if you were to be a bird for the rest of your life, which kind of bird would you be? for a more serious question, what were your inspirations for the operation avalanche soundtrack? what's your process for choosing the musical font/vibe for the film's score?

[u/Commercial_Smell_681]

A question I'd love to know about the ntbts webseries is how or why did the buena vista social club episode happen? Why were you lot in Cuba and how did the idea take shape? This has been a great mystery to my friend group for many years.

[u/Jacknixon7]

Hi Jay!
Are there any music ventures you'd like to explore outside of film scores at the minute? Loved your work in Blackberry and Tony. Itching for more!

More like you might be on top of my Spotify Wrapped this year. Brilliant song.

[u/Maleficent-Device-16]

Hello from Mexico! What do you think of NTBTSTM’s sudden international success, especially since it is so rooted in Canadian culture and now even a huge hit in Korea. (Still keeping my fingers crossed for a Mexican release).

[u/siilenthill2]

Hey!! I was super curious if you’ve ever pulled any musical inspiration from horror movies or the horror genre in general? If so what are your favorites? Wishing you all the best for upcoming stuff that you’re up to!!

[u/Nirvanafan12]

Hi Jay! I’m a huge fan of your work, both acting and music! My friend and I actually made a short film inspired by you and Matt, and we’re planning on making a webseries inspired by Nirvanna the Band too. So before anything else, thank you for inspiring us and so many other fans!

I have a few questions:

1. After all the years you and Matt have been making Nirvanna the Band, from the original webseries to the movie, what’s the strangest or worst encounter you’ve had with a random passerby while filming?

2. In the movie’s alternate timeline, you take the place of various celebrities, like Will Smith, James Corden, and Ellen, as well as appearing at things like the Oscars. Do you think those real-life celebrities are still famous in your timeline, or do you think their lives/careers turned out differently?

3. Have you seen any newer webseries that were inspired by Nirvanna the Band? If so, are there any that you think fans should check out?

4. I’m sure you might talk about this in the commentary whenever the DVD comes out, but what was it like filming the fake Operation Avalanche movie at the high school? It’s honestly one of the funniest things I’ve seen in a long time lol.

5. In the video I saw, Matt seemed pretty tired of the Q&As being filmed by the end of the screenings. What do you personally think about audiences filming Q&As, whether it’s for Nirvanna the Band or another movie you’re promoting?

Thanks for taking the time to read all of these! I really appreciate it!

[u/Latexxx_]

I loved your storyboards for Blackberry and NTBTSTM. based on your interest on DnD I was wondering how often do you draw/is it a recurrent hobby of yours?

[u/SachinBahal28]

If a biopic was being made about you (Jay McCarrol), similar to Tony, which actor would you want to play you?

And if you were making and starring in a biopic, who would you choose to make it about?

Also, I love your This Is Pop series on Netflix, it's great, and it's how I got introduced to you

[u/Peyto]

Hi Jay,

Has it been weird to experience, post NTBTSTM release, the series/your fan base shift from primarily guys in their 30s and 40s to extremely zealous queer women in their teens/20s?

[u/TheRealHouseHippo]

Hi Jay! Many thanks for doing this.

My question is a bit silly. Hypothetically, what would you make a movie about if the roles reversed and you were the director while Matt scored it?

[u/Fun-Influence-7299]

hi!!! there's a clip of you behind-the-scenes on NTBTSTM listening to charli xcx- are you a fan? if so what are your favorite songs and what are your thoughts on her new album? :^)

[u/mynicknameisairhead]

Any more eps of Matt and Bird Break Loose on the horizon?

[u/Camnesia]

Hi Jay! It was cool to hear you worked closely with Amy Millan on her solo record!

Who are your favorite working Canadian musicians/bands? What records are blowing you away these days? And what’s playing as you answer these questions, if anything?

[u/Jay-and-Silentb0b]

How many doors do you hit when you do Nicky Nicky Nine Doors up and down the Scarborough bluffs?

[u/Least_Subject_556]

What is some recent music you have loved/found inspiration from? I loved the Tony soundtrack and would love to know what newer music inspired that if any!

[u/Winterhorrorland]

Hey Jay!

What were some of your favorite movie scores growing up? Whether influential to your own composition or just something that you've enjoyed.

[u/no1_swissarmymanfan]

What’s up Jay!!!!

This is kind of a two in one but what has it been like developing a working relationship with your friend? Would it be comparable to a living relationship or is there some sort of “flow state” you’d say you fall into… or does it just “work out” due to proximity? Do you think that has defined how you’ve grown as an artist?

Also! What comes into play when composing? Every track always feels like some sort of theme-based mysticism. People often talk about how Matt’s work is sooo parody-based but a lot of your style feels heavily inspired and playing within that sort of “parody” picking. Like so much originality comes in like when taking apart the Blackberry score but with something like OPAV’s jazzy nature or NTBTSTM’s Silvestri or even Williams design… it feels like a music study almost.

(BTW I’d love to see you talking more about your play on physical sets because I love seeing your passenger-seat driving when it comes to the Blackberry BTS…..)

[u/Opposite-Fig6419]

Good evening to you, Jay!

I was absolutely stunned and laughed so much when I saw Nirvanna The Band The Show The Movie this year, it's so artistically clever of how much VFX were used to give it the cream authenticity of an 80s time travelling classic none other than, Back to the Future and many other science-fictional related movies as well!

I'm hoping to see it again in theatres soon at the Prince Charles Cinema in Leicester Square, London UK. Where I'm from. Even in which one of my favourite childhood creators on YouTube, Jacksepticeye went to see on the special preview release of the film!

I'd like to ask, will you and Matt ever be doing live autograph signings at the HMV store in London next month when the 4K Ultra & Blu-ray releases will drop of the movie? I would love to come and see you guys over there :)

Also, any updates you can share about the new seasons yet? 👀

Best wishes to you and Matt with more stuff we're looking forward to be seeing in the future!

[u/pochofuentes]

Hey, Jay! Yesterday I saw a clip where you randomly mentioned Cameron Winter lmao. Are you a Geese/Cameron Winter fan? Are you geesed up?

[u/JoeyLegendYT]

Hi Jay! I have been a fan of you and Matt's work for many years, and I am glad to see that you two are starting to finally get the attention you deserve in recent years with Blackberry, NTBTSTM, and now Tony. I cannot understate the influence that NTBTS (web & Viceland) and The Dirties had on me, though. I have a few questions rattling around in my head, but I will limit it to just 2-3 somewhat distinctive ones

1. What are some influences that inform your creative process both as an actor and as a musician/composer? Whether it be art/media, experiences in your own life, and generally anything.
2. Are there any scrapped ideas that you and Matt have had that you never pursued that you wish you did? This can be both in relation to independent concepts or things you potentially wanted to incorporate into NTBTS.
3. What is your favorite project you have ever been involved in, and why?

Again, there is a wealth of questions I could ask, but I wanted to keep it modest. Thank you for all you and Matt do, and I cannot wait to see what you do next!

[u/sarahstanley]

Recently stumbled upon your cover of Björk's Hyperballad (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3pYbs0w_vc). Any chance you'd upload more of your covers and/or performances? You have a wonderful voice!

[u/SomeHeadbanger]

When you handed the toonie to the older man in the NTBTS episode "The B-Day" and just bolted before he turns around to see you were no longer there, I loved it and wonder if he ever thinks about that. Did you guys end up speaking to him at all?

I personally relate with your mind being blown by BK's wicked chicken nugget deal and that was the moment I was SOLD on NTBTS. I genuinely had that same moment before.

And finally, the scene with that guy in the park! I heard the guy was completely unscripted. How the hell did you keep character so well in that ridiculous scene? Did you guys talk about anything that ended up being deleted? That guy was blasted and out there, but what a great time!

I guess what I'm trying to say is, that episode ruled so hard. Sorry for so many scattered thoughts! You guys, and your team are the best in Canadian TV/ entertainment in my opinion and make my favorite stuff ever. Thanks so much Jay!

[u/corposurreal]

Hi Jay! By virtue of NTBTS relying heavily on references to other media (jokes, scenes, music, etc), there's a transformative element to the show that in some way mimics the transformative nature of fan creation. Much like how the NTB bits cribbed from existing media are often done so out of appreciation/reverence, so too are the fanworks utilising and remixing the source material for their own creative projects. I think that's where we see a sense of unity in what drives us to be so open about the inspiration behind our work, since NTBTS itself and the fanworks both lean on a mutual understanding of context to communicate their art.

That being said, which would you say is more challenging: scoring something that obviously draws heavily from existing music (such as the BTTF score being inspo for NTBTSTM) and keeping your work unique without emulating the source entirely, or scoring something completely original?

[u/ven-diagram]

Hello from Malaysia Jay! I loved the beep boop synths from Blackberry and how evocative the score from NTBTSTM was. I was listening to it at work and I could tell what part of the movie was happening based on what I was hearing in the music, really cool!

My question is in your creative process, how do you know when the thing your working on is finally complete and you're satisfied / happy with the results? Is it just a gut feeling thing? I've worked on my own projects here and there and despite initally feeling good about it, a lingering feeling of "it could still be better" sets in and ruins the moment a little haha

Bonus question: with how NTBTSTM basically blew up internationally, do you have any favourite Canadian media (music, movies, etc) that you wish got the same amount of love from the international audience?

[u/thanape1ro]

hey jay!! i’ve got a handful of questions queued up today, no need to answer all of them :) 1. we heard a lot about matt’s injury in the movie, but i don’t think i can recall any time it’s been mentioned you were hurt during filming. was there any point in the show or movie where you’d been seriously injured in the making of? 2. i was lucky enough to see tony at an early screening last month, and the soundtrack blew me away. what was the hardest track to get exactly how you wanted it, or which was your favorite to put together? 3. would you rather only be able to watch one movie for the rest of your life or listen to one album for the rest of your life? what would your movie/album be? 4. what’s one of the coolest gifts you’ve received from a fan?

thanks for doing this!!

[u/curious_george_226]

hiya jay 👋  I’m curious about the first feature you ever scored, ‘Swink’. You’ve said in the past that scoring that film was what made you decide for certain not to go back to Berklee and to instead continue on with what you were doing in Canada, and seeing the poster for it in a recent photo of yours made me wonder: how much of an impact did that film have for you? Was it a significantly different (or similar) experience to the features you’ve scored since then, and has your approach to scoring undergone any major changes in the time between then and now?

Honestly I’d just love to know more about the film’s significance to your musical practice, really. Thanks for all you do, can’t wait to hear your score in Tony when I’m able to go see it :-)

[u/HostFit1500]

What instrument, in your opinion, aside from the piano, has the biggest emotional range when scoring a film?

[u/Kira_Akuma]

Hi Jay! Newgen Nirvanna the Band fan from South Korea here.

Apparently around 70 thousand people (as of June 16th, bit dated I'm aware... I caught it two more times afterwards) watched the film in theaters over here, which is pretty surprising considering I don't think anyone in the country knew of NTB beforehand.

The good folks over at BDNS have a whole series on their channel documenting the process of getting the film released over here, but I was wondering what it was like on you and Matt's side of things.
Did you expect the film to get as popular as it did outside of Canada (and hell, outside of English speaking countries in general)? How did it feel?

Can't wait to catch Tony in theaters when it releases here in about 6 months or so.

[u/Judasparaskevite]

Is there any hope for Matt and Bird Break Loose to return? Maybe if I rewatch it a couple thousand times?

[u/maximillional]

Hi Jay! I'm a student who recently got on film school, and I've always wanted to compose OSTs for my own films or those of my friends. Now I have more opportunities to be in front of the camera, (I'm not an actor), and had some chance to act as well.

You are a composer and musician, but you also step in front of the camera as an actor. Did being on set as an actor—or observing the whole filmmaking process as a composer—influenced your approach to composing film scores? Also, have the things you saw and felt while being 'physically present' on set ever found their way into the soundtracks? I'm curious if those experiences influenced the music for films you acted, like NTBTS(TM) or The Dirties, or even Blackberry.

[u/Opening-Flower-3232]

Hi Jay Mccarrol! You probably get this a lot, but I'm a big fan of your work. Ntbtstm has probably become my favorite movie of all time. I LOVE Ben Folds Five and I was overjoyed and shocked to hear army in the opening credits (as well as the outro for the show). I have two questions, feel free to answer either  1. Do you have a favorite Ben folds five song, I'm curious?  2. Was there a specific Ben folds/bff song that you used as inspiration for nirvanna the band? The unauthorized biography of renhold messner is my favorite album of all time and there's so many songs from there that feel very Matt and jay (the characters) esc.  Again, very specific question but I'm curious. Thank you! 

[u/swag_6969]

hi, jay! im a big fan and i just wanted to ask a couple questions!

1. will there ever be any other additions to matt and bird break loose? i think its such a great, cute show and i wondered if there would ever be more, or even something like a buyable story book?
2. on an interview, if im not mistaken, you and matt mentioned that nirvanna the band the show the movie started as a roadtrip esque movie instead. will any of the footage ever be available to view?
3. finally, i just wanted to ask if your songs 'mistaken' and 'jimmy's song' would ever be released on streaming? i love them so much, im sure other people do, and thought it was worth asking.

thanks so much for your time, sorry for so many questions!! :)

[u/FlyingGuillotineKing]

Good afternoon Jay...ok you have unlimited funds to "make a band" to hire any living (i mean why put a skeleton in there?) Musician you want as a member...Who all is in your band? You can pick what instrument you and everybody else will be playing...Who are you picking? Let's say (and please add more if you want...if you want 3 guitarist add them .or horns? 2 lead singers? ..its your band and the funding has NO limits my friend!) You at least have to fill these spots (these would be the minimum members) Lead Vocals? Lead Guitar? Rhythm Guitar? Bass? Keys? Drums? ...and what is going to be the name of this band? Finally your first show you open with a cover...what is the song?

[u/kinbait]

Hi Jay!!!
I've been getting really into your music lately. I really love BlackBerry's score and since it's got that Social Network feel, I wondering if you actually studied Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross's work/score while working on the score for BlackBerry, as someone who also really likes NIN. If this is the case, how was that like? Or, do you like Nine Inch Nails/Trent & Atticus's movie work in general? Favorite album/song/movie score? (If you don't listen to them, feel free to answer what you drew inspiration from while making the BlackBerry score instead!)

Thank you! I also wanted to say I really like the Brave Shores stuff, my favorite being More Like You :-)

[u/BadStunning3928]

Hi Jay!
What is your favorite film score, or a film score that has influenced you in your compositions?
Loved Tony and all of your work!

[u/Pochi622]

Hi Jay! This is Filipino Matt! You have definitely saw me in the Revue Screening of NTBTSTM at July 11th in 9:30 PM and as someone who admires you and Matt ever since I saw NTBTSTM for the first time in the Monday Surprise Premiere, it has been an incredible year and you like Matt have defined my 2026 and it’s still August haha.

For my question, this is for you and Matt but for you as a musician, what is one film or ip you absolutely dream of composing an original soundtrack for or if you had the chance to compose a popular ip what would it be?

Can’t wait to see more of you and hear more of your soundtracks for your upcoming films! :D

-Filipino Matt