Junior Varsity Takes Us to “New York” in a Brilliant New Single
Uncomplicated, straightforward, and fun. Junior Varsity jumps out at you with great vibes and great energy. The LA-based 3-piece act has many of the “garage” punk elements you’d expect from modern exponents of the genre, but the disarming emotive honesty of their lyrics feels like it places them one clean cut above the rest, largely because they’re interested in diving deep within themselves for their songs without compromising the energy and attitude that give them their punk edge.
The band, composed by the talents of singer/songwriter-producers Greg Aram, Zach Michel, and Brooke Danaher, has unsurprisingly caught on the indie music scene, gathering a devoted fan base around them with their commitment to grassroots, DIY performances and a hands-on approach to both their music and visuals.
With their latest release, “New York,” Junior Varsity takes listeners on a lovingly crafted journey of musical growth. This track showcases their ability to blend their signature sound with rich, evocative storytelling that captures the essence of youthful love and the bittersweet moments that come with it.
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Ostensibly set in the background of the titular city, the lyrics are rooted in a reflection of intimacy itself, where small, seemingly mundane details become profound when shared with someone special. The imagery of falling asleep on a pillow, nestled in a room filled with memories, evokes a sense of safety and warmth. It’s as if Aram is making us privy to a small, secret world where every whispered word and shared glance holds significance that resonates beyond the rational.
The recurring motifs of “fast talk” and casual activities like cutting hair in the yard or driving in the car suggest a carefree, almost reckless abandon that often accompanies young love. Yet, there’s an underlying tension in the repeated phrase “you say you don’t want it,” hinting at a reluctance to fully embrace vulnerability. This juxtaposition between desire and hesitation makes for a poignant and truthful look at the tension we’re subjected to when figuring out if we want or should surrender ourselves to another person.
Ultimately, the song uses its distorted garage sound and its melancholic lyrics and vocals to illustrate the contradictory clash of emotions between excitement and fear. “New York”, invites us to reflect on our experiences of love, longing, and the fleeting moments that define our complex connections.
