Joshua‘s debut EP, “Nascent,” initially released in 1996 by Immigrant Sun Records, is a significant cornerstone in the annals of 1990s emo and post-hardcore music. The EP, now remastered and pressed on vinyl for the first time, serves as both a nostalgic time capsule and an enlightening retrospective that captures the essence of a band teetering on the edge of raw energy and unrefined potential. The remastered version, presented in a limited edition Blue/Gold Swirl vinyl with a beautifully intricate three-color screen-printed foldover in a crystal-clear polypropylene gatefold sleeve, is more than just a collector’s item; it is a reverent homage to a formative era in underground music. “Nascent” is not just a simple reissue but an expanded glimpse into Joshua’s early creative process, offering previously unreleased tracks from their 1995 demo “Today We Flew Our Balloons” and two re-recorded songs from their debut full-length album “A Whole New Theory” (1999). This release is a carefully crafted compilation that speaks to the band’s journey from their embryonic stages to a more polished but still emotionally charged sound. The inclusion of the demo tracks, heavily influenced by the likes of Quicksand, Jawbox, and Shudder To Think, underscores the band’s early flirtations with the post-hardcore scene and their aspiration to carve out a unique sonic identity within it. The recording process of “Nascent,” as recalled by the band’s singer, was an exercise in youthful experimentation and the pursuit of authenticity, albeit with the occasional misstep. The absence of a click track, a decision that led to a palpable rawness in the timing, is a testament to the band’s preference for organic over mechanical precision. This choice, while perhaps causing some frustration during recording, ultimately contributes to the EP’s visceral energy. The tempos, often faster than intended, reflect a band caught in the throes of excitement and creative urgency, a trait that resonates with listeners who value emotion over technical perfection.
The mix, with its notoriously loud vocals, stands as a bold, if somewhat contentious, production choice. The Dan Countant’s insistence on emulating the reverb-heavy style of Oasis, despite its seeming incongruity with Joshua’s musical direction, illustrates the band’s experimental nature during this period. The vocals, front and center, command attention, perhaps more than initially intended, but this overwhelming presence becomes an integral part of the EP’s character. The overemphasis on the vocals, coupled with the “squawky” guitar tones and the sped-up tempos, creates a sound that is both endearingly flawed and powerfully emotive. Kip Count’s intermittent involvement during the recording of “Nascent” adds another layer to the EP’s backstory. His contributions, particularly the background vocals on “Kickstand,” offer a glimpse into the band’s collaborative dynamic at the time. The bittersweet nature of his eventual departure from the band before the recording of “A Whole New Theory” hints at the challenges of maintaining cohesion and commitment within a group of young musicians still finding their way. “Nascent” also captures the essence of Joshua’s early sound, rooted in the mid-90s emo and post-hardcore scenes. The influence of bands like Quicksand and Jawbox is evident in the demo tracks, which showcase the band’s initial attempts to marry the intensity of hardcore with the melodic sensibilities of emo. These tracks, raw and unpolished, offer a window into the band’s development and the influences that shaped their sound. The decision to include these demos in the reissue not only enriches the listening experience but also serves as an educational tool for fans and historians of the genre. The remastering of “Nascent” brings a new dimension to the EP, enhancing the clarity and depth of the original recordings without sacrificing their raw energy. The decision to press the EP on vinyl for the first time is a fitting tribute to the analog roots of the band and the era in which they first emerged. The vinyl format, with its warm, tactile sound, complements the EP’s lo-fi aesthetic, making the listening experience both immersive and nostalgic.
The physical presentation of the reissue is a work of art in itself. The limited edition Blue/Gold Swirl vinyl, housed in a screen-printed foldover with a crystal-clear gatefold sleeve, is a visually stunning package that reflects the care and attention to detail that went into this release. The 16-page booklet included with the vinyl offers a wealth of insights into the band’s history and the making of “Nascent,” providing fans with a deeper connection to the music and the people behind it. Joshua’s “Nascent” is more than just a collection of songs; it is a document of a band in its formative years, capturing the excitement, the experimentation, and the occasional missteps that come with being on the verge of something great. The remastered reissue, with its expanded tracklist and luxurious packaging, offers both longtime fans and newcomers a chance to experience this pivotal moment in the band’s history. The EP’s imperfections, from the overly loud vocals to the rushed tempos, are part of what makes it so compelling. These flaws, rather than detracting from the music, enhance its authenticity and emotional impact, making “Nascent” a must-have for anyone interested in the roots of emo and post-hardcore music. For those who appreciate the unvarnished honesty of a band still discovering its identity, “Nascent” is a powerful reminder of why Joshua resonated with so many listeners in the 90s and why their music continues to hold a special place in the hearts of emo and post-hardcore fans today. The reissue of “Nascent” is not just a nod to the past, but a celebration of the enduring power of music to connect, inspire, and transform.
Thoughts Words Action 