Written by John Buchanan
’90s alternative rock veterans the Jenny Thing return with a new CD American Canyon, as if preserved in time.
There are different ways to approach alternative rock and synth-pop music. This is one of the many reasons why these genres have been able outlive trends.
Alternative rock has been the king of innovation in music for quite some time. Alternative rock continues to innovate while still holding onto timeless elements that made it so special.
Some alternative rock artists have a more melodic approach. Nevertheless, others bring more energy to their sound. The Jenny Thing managed to find the sweet spot on their comeback album American Canyon.
’90s Alternative Rock Band The Jenny Thing Returns With American Canyon
Image: The Jenny Thing
The Jenny Thing’s 2021 release features eight original songs. The opener, “Paper Angel,” is a combination of dreamy soundscapes and catchy electronic beats. In fact, it’s somewhere in between Coldplay and Avicii but with a more modern and creative edge to it.
“All in My Head” combines unique guitar tones with vocal layers and a lush soundscape. It makes the formula all the more special. “More All the Time” has a different feel. It hits harder with a punchy beat and a distorted bass tone that has an indie rock edge to it.
The title track itself is almost like a journey through sound, a killer New Wave song with a bit of a psychedelic twist to it. “Aeromedica” comes in soon after with one of the most synth-driven arrangements on this release. The song has a spoken-word intro, and it has a very cinematic sound. “Lightfield” might be one of the highlights of the album. Indeed, it’s probably the Jenny Thing’s most infectious single. This is a pure indie-pop gem with a synth vibe and so much analog-sounding goodness.
“Monsters of Mercy” has an ’80s twist that might remind you of Depeche Mode or U2, while the final track, “Waiting for the Knife” is a perfect conclusion to the Jenny Thing’s astonishing studio work.
’90s Alternative Rock Band The Jenny Thing Returns With American Canyon
Image: The Jenny Thing
In addition to the great performance value, you’ll immediately appreciate how this song blooms and bursts out of your speakers with so much depth and clarity. Every element in the mix seems tailored to jump out of your stereo (or headphones) and you really get a nice sense of punch with every note.
American Canyon is a strong insight into The Jenny Thing’s work. It is very promising as an indicator of a bright future ahead for such a talented act. In other words, American Canyon is an impressive milestone that deserves people’s attention. This is alternative rock at its most vibrant.
Find out more about The Jenny Thing, and check out American Canyon, which is now available on some of the best digital streaming services on the web.