Indie rock band JR JR, comprised of Joshua Epstein and Daniel Zott, releases its third album to the pleasure of fans and music critics with a newfound sound and sternness.
Originally Dale Earnhardt JR JR, the band shortened its name in an attempt to add more attention to the quality of its music and not its name. The change reflects into the band’s sound with its tighter harmonies and instrumentals that pay more attention to detail.
The duo doesn’t trade its signature playful sound for the newfound grimmer. True to JR JR’s aesthetic, this album includes heavily entrenched playful synths and airy vocals.
“Gone” is the album’s first release and paints a clear picture of its content. A modest guitar and whistle begin the song and strangely complement one another. Both group members begin singing “I can be, everything you want me to be.” The song then takes an 80s inspired computer themed beat drop equip with synths and Congo drums.
JR JR experiments on the track “James Dean,” making it a stand out song in the pair’s entire discography. With hi-hats, 808s, auto tune and exaggerated harmonies synonymous with an early ’90s R&B hit, JR JR does something listeners have never heard from them before. The duo sings about their search to “be cool like James Dean,” in sync, crooning the beat like blues veterans.
“As Time Goes” stays true to the album’s big experimental stadium pop sound. Synths again make up the base of the instrumental, the duo proudly chant, “No one can stay the same.” A song about not conforming to trends in the music industry, the songs execution stays in tune with today’s pop anthems.
JR JR creates a sound fans may be more familiar with on, “Electrical Energy.” This song tells the story of a lover infatuated by his or her’s mate. Electric keyboards and an ominous clap create a bridge between the bands new pop-based material and older funk-rock sound. A wise pairing with the band’s intricate vocals sonically create a dreamy perception.
Detroit rock duo JR JR takes a pop road on this album but not to the dismay of listeners. This album full of radio friendly songs stick to the band’s experimental sound, never losing attention to detail.
Strong vocals and a new sound may expose the band to a new audience without losing fans. The album is worth the purchase whether you’ve been around or are newly discovering this gem.