Junaco – “Escape” [Song Review]

“Escape,” the second single from indie outfit Junaco’s upcoming album, In Motion, slated for release in September, reveals the Pacific sensation of discovering tranquility as time passes and one grows older.

In Motion was written last winter while the band resided in a circular structure in a remote setting – cooking on a wood stove, spending time in the sauna, and taking brisk dips in the icy river.

The band shares, “With limited daylight and no access to the internet, it really felt like we were living in our own magical little world and the music just started appearing from there. Most of the songs felt like they came about really quickly.”

Recorded in El Paso, Texas, at Sonic Ranch, the self-produced album was engineered by Mario Ramirez, mixed by Jake Aron, and mastered by Heba Kadry.

Opening on a swaying guitar, “Escape” flows into a dreamy, drifting melody of softly layered gliding tones, almost hovering on warm, soothing surfaces. The tantalizing motion of the harmonics assumes a hypnotic effect, inviting listeners into a realm of mellow contentment.

Junaco, photo by Nicole Mason

Shahana Jaffer’s graceful, enchanting voice slides forth on airy filaments, imbuing the lyrics with charming textures of supple beauty. Vaguely reminiscent of Sade, Jaffer’s voice simultaneously eases pressure and captivates.

With wonderful sonic symmetry and buoyed by Jaffer’s spellbinding voice, on “Escape,” Junaco offers the feeling of concord.

Run Time: 3:18
Release Date: June 25, 2025
Record Label: Independent