The Junior League is back at it again with a stunning new single ansd video in tow. Sharing today the catchy new piece "Teenage Bigstar," we are immediately enticed by the indie rock hooks. Taken from the latest release, "Eventually is Now," The Junior League somehow outdoes himself every time. The brainchild of Joe Adragna, he takes to the drums, bass, guitar, keys and vocals, to create an updated 60's pop sound. Compared to artists from Sloan to The Beatles, it is surely safe to say that The Junior League has staying power. We had the pleasure of catching up with Joe from The Junior Leafgue, as we dive into all things Pop.
1. What made you discover your passion for creating an eclectic blend of electro-pop-rock? T
he Beatles. I have loved them since I was 4 years old, and they did a little of everything--so I suppose they were responsible for what I do mostly. But a more modern group that has a great blend of different sounds that hang together well would be Sloan. The Minus 5 too.
2. What places in your mind do you channel to craft your songs?
I am not sure I channel it. Something just pushes me into action, whether it is hearing a record or watching a tv show, or whatever. Since some of the songs deal with things from a long time ago, I suppose I go to that place in my head where the memories reside.
3. What are your favorite venues to perform at? and if you had to choose, do you feel more comfortable in the studio or onstage, and why?
I don't have a favorite venue, although I have been fortunate to play in some nice places--usually with other groups! I prefer the studio because I am not as nervous and feel more creative and in control. That said, if I am comfortable, I really enjoy playing live. I like the camaraderie of playing with friends on a stage. It's everything beforehand that is nerve-racking--and sometimes after! Hahahaha.
4. How do you create your songs? What is the process like? Does it take you days, weeks, even longer? How does the perfect Junior League piece come together?
I work pretty quickly. Usually, if I am writing a song, I work out what I want to do, start a session, put it down on acoustic, and more often than not, that becomes the basis for the final product. I usually have a bed track of bass, drums, rough acoustic, rough vocal, and maybe some rough ideas for electric in a few hours. Other times, when I have friends helping out with songs, it goes back and forth via the internet. That takes a little longer, but it's always really satisfying to hear how great it turns out. I'm always thrilled with my friends' contributions to the songs. The songs I don't labor over are always the best.
5. How did you create a sound throughout time that is so uniquely your own? What defines your sound to you?
I always feel like people will know exactly what I am listening to or influenced by when they hear one of my records, because I am such a fan of the groups I love. But maybe because I love a lot of stuff, it all gets jumbled together and winds up sounding "like me". I think I write pop rock songs. Some are more poppy than others, some or more rock-y than others. This latest record is more mellow pop, I suppose.
6. This year is already shaping up to be a huge year for you. What do you hope to accomplish in 2018 with the new record in tow?
I hope to play a bunch of fun shows, and have lots of people hear the record. I'm very proud of it. Find the band via: www.thejrleague.com https://www.facebook.com/thejrleague
