Junior Pantherz – Rejoice, Remain (Saved By Radio)

Junior Pantherz are like an old high-school girlfriend that you bump into years after graduation. You haven’t thought about them in ages, and they still possess all the qualities that made your adolescent heart scream. But with some distinct improvements that only time and experience allow. After a short break-up, Junior Pantherz have reformed with the addition of Maygen Kardash on keys and backing vocals who adds a complimentary element to Terry Mattson’s strong, but not entirely unique voice. They’ve also jettisoned the quick pop nuggets of the late 90’s for meticulously crafted, complex rock songs. Tracks In and of Itself and High Hopes slowly build their down tempo guitar and organ grooves into soaring rockers while the crunchy power chords and foot stomping drums of The Ice Capade and Be Proud of JPZ are reminiscent of Clayton Park era Thrush Hermit, an obvious influence. Not unlike that old Girlfriend, Junior Pantherz warrant a second look.