Noise Real, a record label based out of the Bakersfield and Santa Rosa, have joined forces with some biggest names in post-hardcore to create a tribute album dedicated to beloved San Diego band Drive Like Jehu. The record is entitled Learn to Relax! A Tribute to Jehu. It features covers from bands like Thrice, Division of Laura Lee, and Fotocrime.
The project was set in motion for some time before the untimely passing of frontman Rick Froberg in June. The label states, “The record took on a new significance for everyone.” The bristling energy and dexterous music produced by the much lauded band hasn’t aged a day. The interpretations on the record clearly come from a place of love and deep admiration for the massive influence Froberg and the band had on an entire genre.
Sparta takes on the track “Super Unison” from the universally acclaimed Jehu masterwork Yank Crime. Frontman Jim Ward gives a bracing, cathartic performance. Beyond vocal similarities, he evokes the spirit of Froberg with passion as he screams about the dangers of losing oneself in a crowd. The track maintains a steady, tightly wound beat while occasionally veering off into ruminative yet knotty musical passages. It then crescendoes thrillingly into massive moments again and again.
The track is actually filled with top-notch musicians. Sparta bandmate Matt Miller plays bass, Arun Bali from Saves the Day plays second guitar, and Tucker Rule from Thursday plays drums. Thursday frontman Geoff Rickley also appears to contribute backup vocals. The result is a stirring cover and a fitting tribute to Froberg.
The album is due for release on November 17.
Listen to the track here
Visit Noise Real’s bandcamp for the album here.
