Julia Brown: An Abundance of Strawberries Review

By Ezlyh Gutierrez
Music Reviewer

Artist: Julia Brown
Album: An Abundance of Strawberries
Label: Birdtapes
Release Date: January 15, 2016
Website: cool.bandcamp.com/

Nothing gives me more chills than dreamy, delayed acoustics, sharp psychedelic details and transitions flowing effortlessly to create a theme of raw magnificence. Every other piece in An Abundance of Strawberries seems to have it’s own unique voice, story, and mysterious message. The most pleasurable part of listening is trying to figure out what that message is exactly. Previously Teen Suicide, Julia Brown is a band that resembles musicians that have dipped into the post-punk scene. Musicians such as Deer Leap, The World is a Beautiful Place and I am No Longer Afraid to Die create grungy, hypnotic blends with a touch of angst and uneasiness but Julia Brown has found a way to keep the atmosphere of the genre with a touch of obscurity and an impressive aged sound.

A prime example of this obscure post-punk sound can be heard in the pieces “Snow day” and “25 days.” Sam Ray’s voice gives you reminiscent memories of vocals in the punk scene that trended through the 2000’s, edgy and untouched. In addition, Caroline White’s gentle vocals even out the tones in songs such as “All Alone in Bed” and “Loved.” A perfect juxtaposition that gives the listener a sensation of nostalgia and band new experience. You’re sure you’ve heard these songs before but the frame they are set in for you now is bright and fresh.

The lyrics are simple poetry, with lines such as, “are you coming home? Have you been losing weight again? Does your mother know that you’re skin and bones?” in “All Alone in Bed”. They give the piece a personal touch that I to listen to when diving into unfamiliar pieces.

This album is new. It’s an untold story. It’s reality.