Grade: A-

Forgive me for my bias. To me, Justin Vernon, of Bon Iver and Kanye West guest-spotting fame, can do no wrong. Among the numerous side projects in which he partakes, Volcano Choir is a group that produces some of the most experimental music Vernon has laid hands on. With Volcano Choir’s second effort “Repave” waiting in the wings, “Byegone” is the first taste of what can be expected from Vernon and friends. It’s mostly an exciting sneak peek. Vernon’s unusual songwriting style and signature vocals are in the forefront. The track builds and swarms into the rousing chanting, “Set sail!” It’s certainly a rousing moment, though the song takes a while to get there. “Byegone” feels a bit more generic and appealing to less experimental indie rock, but it’s a definite reassurance of the power Volcano Choir owns.