Junipero at SoHo

Organic, Folksy, Creative. These are just a couple of words to describe UCSB's own Junipero, a band that has a soft spot in the hearts of all that know of them and their music. Composed of Kasey Warner, Dave Pascoe, Michael Sallstrom, and Hanna Haas, Junipero has a quintessential sound that is reminiscent of warm sunsets, long walks on the beach, and comforting chai lattes. With numbers like "Case of Fire" and a heart-warming rendition of Simon and Garfunkel's "Cecilia", Junipero makes use of compatible harmonies between Michael and Hannah, as well as Dave to create warm and memorable sounds. All four of them create a kind of energy on stage that you can't help but gravitate toward them- Dave's incredible violin skills, Kasey's simple yet unique approach to percussion, and Michael and Hannah's soulful vocals and guitar make Junipero a band that you find yourself swaying to. Junipero has become so popular among UCSB"s student population that during a performance, like the one I recently attended at Soho, people will be singing along and dancing- Junipero also has a fun aesthetic as they like to dress up (especially Dave) and encourage the audience to do so as well. Junipero's music draws in every kind of listener,  from the hippie girl that like to dance barefoot, to serious music lovers and critics, and it seems that Junipero finds a way to make everyone happy. Maybe its that violin or Hannah's grainy vocals, or their alternating melodies and harmonies that slowly take you to a place where all is calm and peaceful. If the phrase "down to earth" could be categorized into a sound, Junipero would be that sound- they are what people seek when they crave that local, "home" feeling you get from listening to a good set of songs. Not only are they all full of talent, but Junipero also consists some of the nicest human beings you'll ever meet. They make sure the audience is feeling good, and radiate love and compassion through each one of their songs. I'm always left with chills and there's undeniably a smile on my face after listening to songs like"Cecilia" and "Case of Fire". Junipero also performed some new songs at Soho, including " The Ballad of Captain Planet" which has your foot tapping, and has a kitschy feel with Kasey's light percussion and Dave skillfully placed violin as Michael sings.  Want to know what Santa Barbara sounds like? Listen to Junipero- they will not disappoint. Be ready though, you'll soon be left with a similar feeling of seeing a warm Santa Barbara sunset.

I highly recommend "Cecilia" and "Case of Fire"

Check out Junipero's MySpace page:

http://www.myspace.com/juniperosound

Hannah Haas, Kasey Warner, Michael Sallstrom, and Dave Pascoe