Junip

General | May 2013

Reviews

Francis D
Reviewed 2013-05-24
“Junip” Junip
Junip is an indie rock band formed by Argentine-born, Swedish singer-songwriter José González, along with Tobias Winkerton (organ, Moog synthesizer) and Elias Araya (drums). This is Junip’s second CD since forming 15 years ago — its first was Fields, released in 2010. The rest of the time González’s has focused on solo projects. It’s hard to categorize the band’s music — it combines elements of folk, rock, jazz, world rhythms, and electronica. One thing is certain — Junip makes outstanding music that should appeal to a wide range of tastes. Take a listen!
— Francis

Recommended: 1, 6, 10, 3, 4. No FCCs detected.

1. (5:39) Line of Fire — Cinematic opener. With soaring synth strings and lush harmonies, you can almost visualize the opening scenes flashing by. Yet González’s emotive vocals and guitar work bring an intimate touch to the lyrics. ****
2. (3:27) Suddenly — Timekeeping rhythm loop, plus block. Piano, bass and fuzzy synths create a lightness and simplicity.
3. (4:45) So Clear — Layers of synths set up a tension between pulsing low- and higher-register keyboards accompanying González’s vocals. ***
4. (4:07) Your Life Your Call — Drums, handclaps and synth bass line create an easy stroll that takes the edge off what could be a chilly chorus, “It’s your life, it’s your call…stand up and enjoy your fall.” ***
5. (1:59) Villain — Fuzzy, with a harder edge. Vocals buried in the mix.
6. (5:44) Walking Lightly — Hypnotic tribal drums and rhythms plus Winkerton’s crisp, clean keyboards paint a sparkling portrait of a walk through uncharted territory. Brilliantly layered. ****
7. (2:38) Head First — Playful bass line and bongos set up a trippy, syncopated beat — accented by Winkerton’s synth squiggles.
8. (3:45) Baton — Another up-tempo, rhythm-driven track. Almost a bossa nova feel to this slinky song. Whistling!
9. (5:01) Beginnings — Slower, haunting. Thumping drums and pulsing bass provide a floor for occasional 1960s-sounding organ and vibraphone-like flourishes.
10. (5:41) After All Is Said and Done — Solid closer. González’s vocals are spot on in evoking bittersweet memories of plans made but missed and promises unkept as the waves of ages past lap upon the shore. ****

Recent airplay

After All Is Said And Done
KZSU Time TravelerJul 07, 2023
Line Of Fire
Goggles OptionalNov 07, 2018
Line Of Fire
Goggles OptionalOct 03, 2018
Line Of Fire
KZSU Time TravelerFeb 23, 2018
Line Of Fire
Time TravelerMar 06, 2015
Walking Lightly
Time TravelerDec 05, 2014

Charting

2013-05-27 — 2013-07-29
Week EndingAirplays
Jul 28 2
Jul 21 1
Jul 14 3
Jul 7 1
Jun 30 2
Jun 16 1
Jun 9 2
Jun 2 5

Track listing

1. Line Of Fire
2. Suddenly
3. So Clear
4. Your Life Your Call
5. Villain
6. Walking Lightly
7. Head First
8. Baton
9. Beginnings
10. After All Is Said And Done