For the first seconds I was skeptical. I began to dread the reverb-y choir and opening guitar plucking preceding Y La Bamba‘s “Juniper.” But lo and behold, the song actually became a song.
Provided with a steady rhythm, Luzelena Mendoza (Y La Bamba herself) sways her voice to a call and response melody both eerie and moving. The tune is from Lupon, Mendoza’s first full-band debut on Portland’s Tender Loving Empire. Produced by the Decemberist’s Chris Funk (who continues his strong résumé), Lupon will be available September 28, 2010.
However (yes there is more), if waiting until fall is too heavy a burden, might one advise a string of shows, including an artist’s residency at the Laurelthirst Public House? Yes, it has been advised.
7/14- Portland, OR – Laurelthirst Public House (Laurelthirst Artist Residency)
7/18- Salem, OR – Miller Brothers Ranch – EMRG+N+SEE 2010
7/21- Portland, OR – Laurelthirst Public House (Laurelthirst Artist Residency)
7/28- Portland, OR – Laurelthirst Public House (Laurelthirst Artist Residency)
9/10 – Portland, OR – Someday Lounge (Musicfest NW)
9/23 – Corvallis OR – BS Music Fest
The band also just announced today that their album release show will be September 17 at Mississippi Studios, so clear your calendar.
Check out "Juniper" below:
– Nick Walker