I’ve always had a soft spot for bands that create an intimate and committed sound. There’s something inherently sharp and poignant about their music—a distilled no-nonsense attitude that resonates deeply. LA-based Junaco exemplifies this beautifully. Led by Shahana Jaffer, this folk/indie ensemble seems to absorb the world around them, molding their experiences into songs that explore life, love, and the complexities in between.
Their latest offering, “Find The Melody,” is the first single from their forthcoming sophomore LP. Collaborating with the talented producer/composer Tyler Chester on piano, as well as Oliver Hill (Coco) on strings and Omar Velasco on guitar, the band describes this track as a “Brazilian-inspired ode to movement in our bodies and movement through life.”
The song begins with an eclectic percussion line that jolts you awake, a burst of energy that quickly gives way to a soothing guitar riff, evoking a bossa nova vibe. Shahana Jaffer’s vocals glide effortlessly, fully embracing a spacious, ethereal soundscape that feels both sultry and hypnotic.
The lyrics are refreshingly direct, urging us to chase that elusive high of losing ourselves in the music, the almost primal urge to move when melody and rhythm align just so. It’s a quasi-mystical state of flow that the composition facilitates, lending both narrative and emotional depth to the song. This leaves us pondering: If Junaco can distill such power and beauty into a single track, what might the entirety of their upcoming LP offer?
Scheduled for release in September 2025, “In Motion” signals an exhilarating new chapter for Junaco, crafted at the esteemed Sonic Ranch in El Paso, Texas. The band took on the mantle of producers, collaborating closely with engineer Mario Ramirez to refine their distinctive sound. Jake Aron handled mixing, while Heba Kadry ensured the album’s mastering reached exceptional audio quality. Given the meticulous care evident in “Find The Melody,” one can’t help but feel a quiet thrill of anticipation for what lies ahead.
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