Here in Los Angeles, we have a number of worthy artists about which to write. (Your crusty chronicler has over a dozen CDs stacked behind the computer as this goes to press.) Sometimes, however, your favorite L.A. Music Examiner feels the need to think outside the box . . . or in this case think OF the box . . .Jen Urban & The Box, that is.
Jen Urban & The Box is an individualistic indie duo currently based in Brooklyn, New York. Formed in 2006, this electro-pop pair of (California native) Jen Urban (on guitar, programming and lead vocals) and Alan D (on bass, synth-bass, keyboards and vocals) produces some always original and often interesting tracks by blending elements of electronica, pop and rock into their own signature sound.
Since the two joined forces they have toured the country gracing numerous stages and dance floors with their particular playlist of sexy, slick, sophisticated electronic dance-rock. Specifically they have performed at such well-known venues as CBGBs, the Nokia Theatre, The Knitting Factory, and the Blue Note. In less than a year this dynamic duo had recorded and released their (2007) indie debut disc titled Urban Daydream.
This 10 track album was just a sample of Urban’s new musical direction and Alan D’s influence on the former all- grrrl band babe. From the lead-in “Backseat” through noteworthy numbers like “Daydream” and "So On", JUATB had energetically begun to forge their own melodious pop sounds. The album was further fleshed out with the help of guest vocalists Rosy Nolan, Chablis Quarterman, Kaara Vasquez and Emma Levine-Nevel on such songs as "S.O.V." and "Something In The Dark". Producer John Zay even chimes in on "Therapy".
The next year (2008) they would begin an 18 date residency at Sugarland in Brooklyn that would take them into the new year (2009). They would also play other notable gigs including OUTmusic's Stonewall 25th Anniversary Benefit Concert, Murray Hill’s Miss Lez Pageant, and what "The Village Voice" called "the best queer party" QxBxRx. 2009 would also be the year they would release the single "Let's Ride", a tune that is reminiscent of older influences but also of their previous disc.
2010 witnessed the curious couple playing plenty of Quite Queer events and more importantly would find the tuneful two back in the studio writing and recording new material with producer and electronica artist Zack (ZXL) Hagan another artist also distributed by Roc-Elle Records. Before year's end they would put out the lead single from their soon-to-be sophomore selection, "21". It would garner enough critical acclaim to grab the group two 2011 OUTmusic Award nominations in the categories of "Best Pop Song" and "Best Dance Song" as well as an invitation to do the song live at the awards ceremony. (The band has also earned some international acclaim thanks to an appearance on the German reality TV show Der Starpraktikant in conjunction with Rolling Stone Europe.)
Taking a tip from technological influences on the industry, Urban and D released a second extended single titled "Ringtone & Remixes". In what some may see as a controversial move and still others more a matter of survival, they signed a licensing agreement with Keds Sneakers to allow the song to be used on Keds.com. The new tune is featured in a webisode about indie music mecca, Other Music.
Their lyrical music is sometimes emotional and sneakily heartfelt and almost always fun. The old school influences of such artists as Madonna and Le Tigre are often found deep within the dance music but it's always obvious they strive to be somehow different. Roc-Elle Records reps confirm they hope to release yet another single from the next album titled "Aeon". This one is said to be "an homage" to a hot summer on the infamous Fire Island later this month or possibly next. Additionally, they are considering releasing further remixes of the track or an EP before the second album hits the stores and are hoping to mount a national tour later this year. As their music appears to be becoming more dramatic, one thing is already certain, Jen Urban & The Box is thinking outside the box.
My name is Phoenix and . . . that's the bottom line.
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