Invocations / Conversations (LP)
JR JR
Amoeba Review
08/10/2020
After almost four years without a release, indie-rockers JR JR return not only with a new double album, Invocations / Conversations, but also their own record label, Love is EZ. The Detroit based duo of Daniel Zott and Joshua Epstein's latest release is full of sincerity and introspective wisdom, with tones that evoke a gentle high, reminiscent of an afternoon of light day drinking. Album opener "Day In / Day Out" is perhaps their most cynically tongue in cheek song, and also a genuine pop gem, like an updated track in the tradition of '70s LA songwriters Harry Nilsson and Randy Newman. Warm and fuzzy synth sounds permeate throughout the album, creating playful and engaging textures, as in the electro-psych chorus of "Dumb Myself Down," or the anthemic "Low."