One thing I’ve discovered about being involved with a site like this is that you never know what the day is going to bring. There’s nothing like the sheer pleasure of coming across a band you’ve never heard of, having no preconceived ideas about what they are going to sound like and then being blown away when you hear that first track. Young Jesus, happily, provided me with that pleasure today.
Coming from the northern suburbs of Chicago, Young Jesus are made up of four members; John Rossiter, Shawn Nystrand, Cody Kellogg, and Peter Martin. They have been writing and playing together since early 2009 and range in age from 19 to 22. They name among their influences such bands as The National, Titus Andronicus, Wilco and The Hold Steady.
They recently participated in Red Bull’s Rock the Route which features two Chicago bands going on tour to L.A. The tour is currently being showcased in 10 webisodes on YouTube and Redbullusa.com.
“Gardens” is the first track on the new EP and is a great introduction to the band. Rossiter cites Matt Berninger of The National as one of his main lyrical influences and although it is apparent on this track, the band still have a sound very much their own.
Starting with what sounds like overheard conversations, Rossiter’s vocals break in over the top with a plaintive refrain. The conversations build to a crescendo before the music hits and straight away we’re into a classic number. Pounding drums and a wicked guitar lick kicks us into a tune that just dares you to stand still. I couldn’t listen to this without nodding my head and grabbing the imaginary drum sticks! A gentle interlude of Rossiter singing over a single guitar then leads us into a closing section that is just crying out for a stadium sound system. You will turn this one up loud.
For a second release this bodes well and I really can’t wait to see what else they’ve got in store for us. The entire EP is available to download for free from their website.
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Young Jesus – “Gardens”
