There have been few records this year that have captured the imagination with as much fervor as Jubala's self-titled debut release. The Californian quintet's music is unabashedly soulful, with heart-on-one's-sleeve lyricism that's astutely supported by atmospheric, melodic instrumentation. The effect-laden guitars carry an almost post-rock ambiance when not delivering thick, crunching riffs. The keyboards play a significant role in the album's aura as well, and the bass underneath supports the other instruments with an undeniably warm, mellifluous tone. Jubala's record is intricately designed, but never over-the-top in composition or delivery, and their aural landscapes and sonic ambiance will suck you in.
Let's address something right from the onset: this record is not for those who only need music for white noise in the background. Jubala is a dynamic and diverse album that requires nothing less than your immediate and undivided attention. There is a lot of music on the record; without question, listeners will hear something new or innovative with each subsequent listen. Stated differently, there is no possible way one can reasonably digest this album on one listen alone. How many songs this year start off moderately, with only bass and vocals, before giving way to a keyboard interlude that seamlessly segues into a saxophone solo that sounds like it was taken right out of a 1930s Chicago club? The track (aptly titled "On Stage") does not stop there - the saxophone break turns into a funky, guitar-driven passage that serves as an absolute album highlight. There is so much beauty to be heard on this record that it must absolutely be sought out and heard for yourself. Tracks like the socially-cognizant "Welcome to the Fall," the epic "Climber" and its extended metaphor are arguably two of the best songs of 2008, and the emotional outpouring heard on "On Stage" is an amazing cut. Many other tracks - namely "This High," "Aftermath," the Incubus-esque "Spiritual Warrior" and "Far Away" (especially its piano feature, which is absolutely awesome) - forge their own individualities on the album. Absolutely recommended for anyone with an attention span.
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