Debut album from José González - fronted rock band JUNIP was formed in Gothenburg, Sweden, in the late '90s by José González (guitar, vocals), Elias Araya (drums) and Tobias Winterkorn (organ, moog). Their first 7" came out in 2000 and they self-released the Black Refuge EP in 2006. RCRDLBL distributed the 2009 single "Chickens/Azaleadalen". Junip has periodically gathered together and recorded when schedules permitted, but this is the first time the members will focus exclusively on the band. Their sound can be familiar to those who have listened to González's critically acclaimed records, but added to the mix on top of his nylon stringed guitar and distinctive voice are organs, synths and drums. The songs are often dynamic, melodic and shadowy.
S**O
Fields
Having been a fan of Jose Gonzalez for some time and hearing about this album, it was a foregone conclusion I'd give it a try.This album offers us a selection of tracks is Jose's inimitable style but with the more fleshed out sound a band can bring. There is still the echoy effect added to Jose's vocals and his addictive guitar work, but it all sounds fuller and richer. `Always' is a very good track and reminds me of `Cycling Trivialities' in places.This is a very laid back album and it would be quite easy to dismiss it on first listen. But after repeated playing and becoming acclimatised to the songs on offer, you start to see there is more to this than meets the eye. Jose's influence on the sound can be seen from the outset and shines through very strongly on songs like `Rope and Summit', which I love, but as long as you are aware then this doesn't detract from the music one bit. The other band members may dislike being known as Jose's backing band (as I`ve read in other reviews), but when the sound between this band and Jose's solo work is so similar it is inevitable these comparisons will be made and their individual contribution will be discounted to add insult to injury. Saying that, Junip gets a lot of exposure off the back of Jose's earlier success (this is how I heard of this album for example) and they shouldn't knock it. All in all this is a very accomplished album and if you enjoy this, it is a fair bet you'll enjoy Jose's solo work and vice versa. I haven't stopped playing it since I bought it and happily recommend it.Feel free to check out my blog which can be found on my profile page.
J**.
Five Stars
fabulous
A**E
Great!
Heard a couple of tracks whilst watching The Secret Life of Walter Mitty and thought I would give this album and another one a try. Really impressed. Chilled but with substance!
J**S
Five Stars
Amazing quality vinyl!
A**R
Good Value for Money - Quick Delivery
Bought as a gift.
A**O
Five Stars
i love it,
L**F
Five Stars
Excellent
G**D
Five Stars
Brilliant album
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