Review Summary: Jogger, I want to hug your album.
Jogger's music can be hard to describe. Electronica mixed with folk? Catchy beats with vocal harmonies in between? When music contains many different genres there's a big chance the band get lost in the sound, but upon successfully merging different music styles, you can be left with something quite interesting. And Jogger has done just that.
The LA based duo start strong with opening track “Napping captain” which shows of the band's diverse sound. Guitars strum and the vocals soar while the song builds up a catchy beat joins the song, which keep the song moving until the end. The song is a good example of the three instruments which are used throughout the album; mainly guitars, electronics to create a beat and the vocal harmonies of the duo. Moving along to "Nephicide", interestingly which mixes death metal growls and aggressive DnB'ish drumming. To contrast this, soft folk like vocals along with simple guitars and a funky bass gives the listener a moment of breath and provides a break from the growls. The death metal growls are though, surprisingly the best part of the song and it wouldn't be the same without them.
A lot of what just makes Jogger so interesting is the contrasts found in their sound. There is constantly something working along something else. Fortunately the sounds never feel out of place, you rarely feel that there is something missing from a song.
Moving on to the negative aspects of “This Great Pressure”, there are times of repetition to be found on the album. Most song are also over the 4 min mark which isn't necessarily long but some songs can drag on a little longer than necessary. Otherwise there aren't a lot of negative thing to say about Joggers debut album.
A highlight on the album are also surprisingly, the lyrics. “To be blessed has never felt so stressed. Being well-versed has never felt so cursed” the duo proclaims on “In America”. The band manages to be interesting lyrically, which is somewhat of a surprise considering the genre where vocals/lyrics isn't normally a focus.
To fully grasp all the small little details of genres and influences on the album takes more than one listen which keeps the album feeling fresh several listens in.
If you want something new and exciting give Jogger a chance to impress. This gem from 09 is not to be passed up upon.
