Sometimes labelling a band ‘One To Watch’ can be a bit of a gamble. They might only have a promising EP, or a mighty good single. Not so with Nerves Junior: we’ve got a preview copy of their debut album, and it’s killer. The album, called “As Bright As Your Night Light”, isn’t out until September 6th, but, so you don’t have to just take my word for it, we can share two tracks with you right now.
One of them is “As Bright As Your Night Light”, a worthy title track. It opens with a bobbing synth melody and some teasing, slyly self-confident lyrics ["Your purse on the counter-top, your heels tapping the cabinet doors. Yeah, what do we need anybody else for?"] before an absolutely immense chorus comes crashing in. Driven by thick electronics and an unconventional drum beat that tumbles down before being whisked back up by a hi-hat snap, it’s a real thrill the first time this blast of noise kicks in. And it’s still a thrill the second time it kicks in: Nerves Junior repeat the song’s opening trick when all but the vocals and that original synth line drop out around the 1:50 mark until, of course, the chorus thumps in again. I’m always weak for a song that spoils me by repeating it’s big moment [Radiohead's "Let Down" and The Strokes' "Under Cover Of Darkness", to name a couple], and “As Bright As Your Night Light” is no exception.
As strong as that track is, “Kale” is a better showcase of the multifaceted nature of Nerves Junior’s sound. Deep electronics and occasionally skittish beats provide the meat of the track, and reverberating guitars hover over the top of the mix. Late on, though, the lead guitar breaks free for a soaring solo, and suddenly it’s as if you’re listening to Johnny Greenwood 15 years ago.
So you should be excited for Nerves Junior’s debut album. Stream “As Bright As Your Night Light” and “Kale” below, and check back for a full review when the album drops on Sonablast Records on September 6th. Safe to say it’s quite good.
