Live Review

The Imagineers – O2 ABC, Glasgow

• 17th Dec 2010

I first saw The Imagineers playing a very good set as a support act back in October, so I was delighted to be invited along to this show. And the band didn’t disappoint, showing that they have the quality to entertain as a headline act.

It was an all-Glasgow bill, opened ably by The Clyde. They have a decent two guitar indie sound, and plenty of energy to their performance. Young and a little raw around the edges perhaps, but they have promise.

Strawberry Ocean Sea played next. They have more of a rock feel; keyboards added to twin guitars to give a rich and textured sound. With a driving beat, anthemic choruses and some very nice lead guitar work, they are a powerful band and were well received by a growing crowd.

By the time The Imagineers came on the room was almost full, and there was a great atmosphere building. It seemed that the band’s mostly youthful following had come to party. And they knew every word to every track, singing along and dancing exuberantly.

The Imagineers played for just over an hour and it was quality entertainment all the way. This is not just another indie band; there is an intricacy to their rhythms and harmonies, and a subtle Latin vibe that underpins some fine songs. Mix in big choruses and catchy lyrics and it all adds up to a winning formula.

The set opened with Hour of Need, and the band were into their stride from the off. Steven Young is an effective front man, acoustic guitar held high, on lead vocals. Lee Ballard on lead guitar adds the flair, while a strong and consistent beat is ably provided by Alastair Greig on bass and Stephen Forbes behind the drums.

The band was joined by Miranda Whitworth, playing an interesting looking red, S shaped violin, on several tracks. This added another layer to an already sophisticated sound, especially on the haunting Cavalry.

Highlights of the set were the two songs that made up The Imagineers first single release earlier in the year. Fairground is lively and just made for a sing-along, while Mariana is a catchy track that moves as a fair pace, and has a chorus that gets stuck in your head – but in a good way.

This was an excellent set from a young band that has already developed a distinct identity for itself. They are confident stage performers and have a number of fine songs in their repertoire.

2010 has been a very good year for The Imagineers. I expect 2011 to be even better.