Written by Lauren Rosier
The independent Detroit-based psych-rock/indie-rock duo, Jobbaloon (pronounced ‘JAH-BALLOON’), delivers a unique listening experience on their 8-song set, “The Invitation,” out now. Their sound incorporates elements of so many different genres, it’s difficult to pinpoint exactly one genre that they fit into. In fact, there’s only a handful of other bands that I can think of, that fit this mold; one being the Portland indie-rock band, Portugal. The Man.
On “The Invitation,” band members Joshua Achatz (writer/producer/guitarist/pianist/singer) and Justin Squires (producer) open the 8-track collection with a short intro that dabbles in metaphysical philosophies, and then transitions into the album’s title track, “The Invitation,” a mostly instrumental track that definitely requires visuals. Honestly, I feel like this duo could have an incredible visual art show as well, in addition to the music.
On the third track, “Bm,” they’re almost reminiscent of another indie-rock band, Dredg, that was popular in the mid-1990s through the early 2000s. The song is so catchy and has this really cool, alternative-rock / indie-rock vibe with bits of electronica splashed throughout it. This duo is definitely one of the best artists I’ve heard in a while and definitely deserves more recognition for the music they’re creating.
“Aligned” and “Baby Blue” are both great tracks that bring in elements of Baroque rock for the modern age with electronic elements. It’s a perfect blend.
On their album, “The Invitation,” the duo says:
“Our music is written from the heart, for our own enjoyment.
The writing process is a cathartic, healing and liberating experience for us, and the hope is other people will have the same experience listening to the songs. If the process is enjoyed, that should translate into an enjoyable end-product.
We put a ton of work into our live show, to make it as engaging as possible. We wanted to create a full-on psychedelic experience, beyond just music, complete with trippy video projection, smoke, lights, confetti, etc. I desperately didn’t want it to be a typical, lackluster, local show, but to be grabbing and in-your-face and hard to look away from.”
Grab a copy of Jobbaloon’s ‘The Invitation,” and get lost in the unique sounds of Jobbaloon.
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