Lies & Jest explores the things we endure and embrace in equal measure,
by combining adventurous songwriting with layered instrumentation,
diverse rhythms and a distinctive natural sound.

From "Lies & Jest"

Just You

Just You is inspired by someone I once met who was utterly self-absorbed and manipulative. It was breathtaking.
But as I wrote, it became more reflective of my fear that I share a healthy dose of those traits (like most of us). We all know someone who's like this from time to time - and we aren't immune from similar criticism.
~ Mike Maxwell

The band

Lies & Jest is the musical vehicle for breakthrough singer / songwriter Mike Maxwell from Perth, Australia. Strong melodies, layered arrangements and harmonies reflect Mike's passion and wide-ranging influences (from Peter Gabriel, Paul Simon, Jim Croce and the Finn brothers to Death Cab for Cutie, Queen and Nazareth). "Lies & Jest" is a nod to the genius of Paul Simon. The full lyric captures perfectly a universal truth:

"All lies & jest
Still, a man hears what he wants to hear
And disregards the rest"
It is a truth that Mike acknowledges but also seeks to challenge in his music. Lies & Jest emerged from Mike's growing bank of demo's and a chance meeting with Clem in 2016 (Clem's website). Since then, Mike has worked with Clem to create a diverse mix of songs for the 2019-release self-titled debut album.