Juniper Honey is a growing alt-rock band originally out of Southern California, but now based in San Luis Obispo. Original members Jake Hesse (lead vocals, guitar) and Donovan Hess (drums) began their journey together in 2020, playing various venues from SoCal to the Central Coast with their old band. In the later months of 2022, Jake and Don picked up guitarist Cason LeSueur and bassist Josh West to officially form Juniper Honey. With a few homemade numbers, the group immediately hit the studio and plan on releasing their first studio work throughout 2023.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Juniper Honey about the latest music, the impossible task of choosing a favorite song, and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Are you able to choose a favorite song of all time? Or would you label this an impossible task? If yes, what’s the song? If no, what are your current Top 3?

This is definitely an impossible task, even choosing a current top 3 is so difficult, but if I had to narrow it down some go-to as of recently have been Sky Blue Sky by Wilco, Crippled Inside by John Lennon, and Machine Gun Kelly by James Taylor.

What about this project makes you most proud? Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release?

I think with this project I am most proud of how fast we were able to click with each other. The time we spent in the studio was some of the first times we (Juniper Honey) had been together as a whole group since we went through some other members to get to where we are now. With this release, I think the main goal in mind, sonically, was to get something we were very proud of and to get what we heard in our heads. Also, we were super excited working with our producer Stefan Mac, and I think another goal of this new music was to work with all hands on deck.

What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going?

I’d say I am very inspired by my musical heroes and idols, and also my bandmates. We keep each other accountable which definitely helps motivate me.

If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? If it’s an indie/DIY artist, please include a link so readers can check them out.

Paul McCartney, I have just always been the biggest fan of Paul since I was very young. I grew up on the Beatles and have always been in awe of his solo stuff as well.

What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists?

Son of Sam – Elliott Smith. Some of our favorites are The Beatles (and their solo careers), James Taylor, Bob Dylan, John Prine, Nick Drake, Elliot Smith, Wilco, Beck, Alabama Shakes etc..

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?

Definitely any shows we have coming up are always the best way! Also social media and your streaming platform you listen on!

I appreciate Your time. Want to say or plug any other projects before we part ways?

Stone Me! Out now. Plus we have a ton of sick merch out if you want to support the band!