Album Review // julie // my anti-aircraft friend

4/5 stars

Born out of the modern '90s revival, Orange County rock trio julie stunningly showcases their potential on my anti-aircraft friend.

Today's internet has been kind to the alternative cultures of the past. Through newly widespread social awareness of musical subgenres like shoegaze and slowcore, acts such as My Bloody Valentine and Duster are more popular now than ever. This development has led to many bands launching full-fledged resurrections, going as far as to release more new music in the last five years than they had in the previous 30.

While seeing these bands return has been exhilarating, many people wondered when the next generation of artists inspired by the alternative acts would appear: therein lies julie. Releasing their first singles in 2020, the band's sound pays reverence to the old guard while also improving its soundscape.

On my anti-aircraft friend, the trio of twenty-somethings display a level of musicality rarely seen in a genre known for being noisy and loud. Every track is a master class in dynamics: transitioning from abrasive to serene in seconds. This level of aptitude creates an album that does not overstay its welcome and leaves the audience wanting more.