screenager’s Latest EP finds meaning in wallowing, and heart in the best and worst of times
Words and Photos by Matt Keenan
Being a local band in New Jersey means everything, to be apart of a vibrant and active music scene, and to be a creative truly like no other. Local bands in New Jersey are hardworking, dedicated, and active, putting it all on the line for their creative vision. While there are a lot of acts in New Jersey who fit this description, not one of them fits it better than screenager.
screenager has just released their EP Striker, which has perhaps summarized Adri’s ability as a profoundly talented musician, songwriter, and collaborator. Accompanied by a network of her friends, family, and producers, Striker represents the very best of what screenager has to offer and is quite possibly one of the most confident debut showings from a New Jersey band in a long while.
Adri dedicates the songs to all the oldest hispanic daughters who grew up in the suburbs and have never touched an antidepressant before. These songs are about wallowing in New Jersey, and in their creation have been through some ugly but also really sweet times and Adri hopes they can provide the same comfort to anyone else as they’ve provided her.
I had the chance to check out a few screenager shows in the past, most recently getting to take some photos at their appearance at Trans Pecos supporting Mary in the Junkyard. Getting to hear these songs live again was incredible, and I found myself yet again impressed at Adri and her band, each and every one of whom is massively talented, and together screenager makes up a band like no other.
Music has a one of a kind ability to connect, and track by track on Striker, screenager vividly illustrates a history with these songs. To me, these tracks invoke emotions, and genuine feeling, I get the feeling I’m wallowing in New Jersey, or longing to be someone else (or somewhere else). I haven’t been able to put down this EP since I first heard it, and I am so extremely proud to have gotten to meet Adri and her band as friends. This EP is a one of a kind representation of creativity coming from someone who genuinely means it, and is more talented than they could ever begin to know.
You can check out screenager’s latest EP Striker as well as all of the photos from their show below, and I thoroughly believe you should. This EP is a must listen, and only the beginning from one of the most creative bands to come out of New Jersey.
