Live Review: Boston's Juniper shake things up with melancholic 'Out of Nowhere'

Following up on their massively successful January single, “Daydream (brake lights)”, Boston-based Juniper has dropped “Out of Nowhere”. The trio—lead vocalist/bassist Scott Johnson, guitarist Ahren Shreeve, and drummer Alejandro Marín—trade the indie funk of 'Daydream' in favour of melancholic lyrics and acoustic guitar reminiscent of early Coldplay, revealing another slice of their sonic portfolio. Shreeve and Marín spoil us with slow-burning electric guitar and complex drumming, as Johnson sings about the paradox of loneliness in a relationship.

“It’s a challenge when you feel that the other person doesn’t understand you, your needs, and who you really are,” Johnson tells Purple Sneakers. It’s an interesting twist on the single or immediately post-breakup wave of emotions.

“A lot of songs are written about how you can feel isolated, doubtful, or lack self-confidence when the relationship is over, but the torment you can feel and melancholy and sense of isolation you can feel in a relationship when your partner doesn’t respect what you want, or not listening to you.”

It’s Johnson’s best vocal performance and songwriting to date for Juniper. He ponders “It’s the same questions every week, I perpetuate cheek to cheek/I’m just a casualty of being weak all of the time, with no alibi”.

“It might be a lack of self-confidence to begin with, or the environment may prevent change… ‘perpetuate cheek to cheek’ is me smiling through that to avoid confrontation or an end, even though that may be what’s necessary.”

“It’s a clusterfuck of emotions, and it’s out now.”

“Out of Nowhere” is Juniper’s third single from their upcoming debut independently released album. Listen below:

Words by Mack Perry

Image: Supplied

LISTEN TO NEW MUSIC HERE

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