Emerging during the pandemic in 2020, the band Julie seized the ears of many art rock listeners with their shadowy debut single, “flutter.” The trio has since released several other singles and an EP but not an album, until now.
Their debut album, “my anti-aircraft friend,” came out Sept. 13 and is a true representation of the band’s dreamy vision, as well as their impeccable talent. It tells a story between two distressed people incapable of being understood, elevated by an overarching melancholic tone and convoluted sounds. It is enigmatic and mysterious, allowing the listener to be suspended in such beautifully articulated uncertainty.
Out of the album’s 10 tracks and 39 minute run time, two songs stand out as individually striking. The first being the tumultuous “clairbourne practice.” With the dynamic vocals of band members Alex Brady and Keyan Pourzand, the song builds a confused but self sacrificial attitude. The singers express in troubled lyrics the weight of feelings experienced when a relationship primarily serves the interest of one, leaving the other’s feelings in a desperate state of confusion. This confusion is further emphasized by the chaotic and brooding instrumentals throughout the song, similar to the sound of Sonic Youth, one of the band’s inspirations.
Secondly, the heart rending “feminine adornments” stands out as the album’s most impressive addition. Alex Brady’ detached, sullen lyrics mimic distressed proclamations from a woman whose voice is not heard or valued. She expresses her need to feel desired and appreciated, stating the ways she will try to change herself to meet the needs of another. She is a complex being with a multitude of emotions treated as an accessory, this mistreatment causes her to see herself as “meat on the wall” that will soon rot. The chaotic sound represents her emotional decay in response to her unappreciation and propels the song into a fervent, rage induced breakdown.
“My anti-aircraft friend” offers an ensemble of both enjoyable and gutting songs, with more than enough variety in sound and structure to entertain its listener. Julie takes every opportunity to showcase their talent more effectively than ever before in this album, making it well worth a listen for shoegaze and grunge fans alike.
