Album Mini-review: The Junior League — “Also Rans”
File Next to: Sloan, The dB’s, Minus 5
Indie label Kool Kat Musik has carved out a solid (if exceedingly tiny) niche as a purveyor of power pop, that oft-maligned subgenre of music which features sharp hooks, strong melodies, and – say its detractors – a slavish lack of originality. But even listeners who aren’t won over by powerpop’s charms may find “Also Rans” an impressive and original release. Keen listeners may hear subtle country-rock shades of The Byrds, Moby Grape, Buffalo Springfield, and other exponents of that shimmering, jangly electric guitar sound. And The Junior League manages that without the slightest whiff of retro-mindedness. The “band” such as it is largely J. Adragna with able assistance from Scott McCaughey (Young Fresh Fellows, Minus 5). Adragna’s top-notch songwriting and arrangement sometimes recall the very best of 80s rock, as on the hypnotically alluring “On/Off.” Often making evocative use of vocal crosstalk and countermelodies within the context of pop songs, several “Also Rans” tunes evoke memories of very early R.E.M., albeit with a much stronger pop sensibility. Easily a choice for one of my Best-of-2015 albums releases.
Available only from Kool Kat Musik. Tell ’em I sent ya.
About the Author
Bill Kopp
With a background in marketing and advertising, Bill Kopp got his professional start writing for Trouser Press. After a stint as Editor-in-chief for a national music magazine, Bill launched Musoscribe in 2009, and has published new content every business day since then (and every single day since 2018). The 4500-plus interviews, essays, and reviews on Musoscribe reflect Bill's keen interest in American musical forms, most notably rock, jazz, and soul. His work features a special emphasis on reissues and vinyl. Bill's work also appears in many other outlets both online and in print. He regularly hosts lecture/discussions on artists and albums of historical importance (including monthly events Music to Your Ears and Music Movie Mondays), and is a frequent guest on music-focused radio programs and podcasts. In Spring 2023 he taught a history of Rock 'n' Roll at UNC Asheville's College for Seniors. He also researches and authors liner notes for album reissues -- more than 30 to date -- and co-produced a reissue of jazz legend Julian "Cannonball" Adderley's final album. His first book, Reinventing Pink Floyd: From Syd Barrett to The Dark Side of the Moon was published by Rowman & Littlefield in 2018, and in paperback in 2019. His second book, Disturbing the Peace: 415 Records and the Rise of New Wave, was published in 2021 by HoZac Books. His third book, What's the Big Idea: Great Concept Albums will be published in 2024. Read even more about him here.