Sonic Youth, a band that defined the experimental rock music scene in the 90s, released their album Washing Machine in 1995, featuring the epic track “The Diamond Sea.” Fast forward to 2019, and a new band, julie, emerges with a fresh take on grunge-pop music. Let’s explore the journey of these two bands and how they have shaped the rock music landscape over the years.
The Legacy of Sonic Youth
With a career spanning over 14 years, Sonic Youth was on the brink of mainstream success when they released Washing Machine. The album’s closing track, “The Diamond Sea,” clocking in at nearly 20 minutes, showcased the band’s signature guitar noise and freeform jamming. Despite its length, Sonic Youth released a radio edit of the song to appeal to a wider audience, but it only managed to chart at No. 23. While critically acclaimed, Sonic Youth never quite reached mass market success.
The Rise of julie
Fast forward to 2019, the year when julie, a band hailing from Los Angeles, was formed. Comprising guitarist/vocalist Keyan Pourzand, bassist/vocalist Alexandria Elizabeth, and drummer Dillon Lee, julie burst onto the scene with their debut single “flutter” in 2020. Drawing inspiration from Sonic Youth, julie’s music is a blend of grunge-pop with a controlled power that sets them apart from their predecessors.
Evolution of julie’s Sound
Over the next three years, julie released a series of EPs and singles, experimenting with different sounds and genres. From emo to shoegaze, julie’s music explores various facets of rock while maintaining a cohesive sound. With influences from Sonic Youth evident in their music, julie strikes a balance between sprawling compositions and concise songwriting, making each track a sonic journey in itself.
Mastering the Art of Songwriting
Unlike the extended tracks of Sonic Youth, julie keeps their songs concise and impactful. With only one track on their debut album exceeding five minutes, julie’s ability to craft expansive soundscapes within a limited timeframe is a testament to their songwriting prowess. Each song by julie unfolds and dissipates quickly, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.
Conclusion
As the torchbearers of experimental rock music, Sonic Youth and julie have left an indelible mark on the music industry. While Sonic Youth paved the way for bands like julie to explore new sonic territories, julie’s fresh take on the genre showcases a modern interpretation of rock music. With both bands pushing the boundaries of sound and structure, the legacy of experimental rock music continues to thrive.
FAQs
Q: What sets julie apart from other bands in the rock music scene?
A: julie’s ability to blend grunge-pop with controlled power and concise songwriting sets them apart, creating a unique sound that resonates with listeners.
Q: How has Sonic Youth influenced the music of julie?
A: Sonic Youth’s experimental approach to rock music has influenced julie’s sound, inspiring them to explore new sonic territories while maintaining a sense of control and structure in their music.
Credit: pitchfork.com
