Album Review

The Imagineers – Karma Soundcheck : Part 1

• 14th Nov 2012

Glasgow four piece indie band and Glasswerk favourites The Imagineers have been quiet in a recording sense of late. They have, of course, remained busy on the live circuit, including a well received appearance at this summer’s T In The Park. And then there’s the small matter of trips to LA to appear on US television courtesy of Scots comedian Craig Ferguson and the Late Late Show. But it’s great to have some new music from them to talk about.

Well, I say new music. The four excellent songs that make up this EP will be familiar to those who have seen the band in concert. And those who haven’t seen The Imagineers live yet are definitely missing something – and should take the first chance they get to remedy that situation. Take it from me, The Imagineers know how to put on a great live show.

These recordings do a good job of capturing the band’s dynamic and lively sound. Their fast paced indie rock beats are infused with a hint of west coast surf and a little Latin rhythm to create something that is clearly from Glasgow yet also feels international. Add in some big and anthemic choruses and you have music that is both melodic and exciting.

The EP’s lead track Shackles is a typically catchy song. Stevie Young’s vocals are rich and even, the familiar Scottish accent giving warmth. The song tells of fighting for freedom, breaking free from the shackles we place on ourselves. Scott Bonnyman’s guitar adds a lovely melody to the strong rhythm created by Stephen Forbes’ driving drum beat and Ali Grieg’s fine bass work, which comes through clearly. All of the components fit together perfectly and there is an elegant feel to the song.

Albert Einstein has a similar rhythm, if a very different subject. There is a dreamlike quality to the slightly distorted lead vocal and again the bass is prominent. The big chorus makes the song, which also features a fine guitar solo. This is Imagineering at work: who wouldn’t want to be like Albert?

So Dramatic feels slightly slower than the familiar live version, yet there is still a driving pulse at its heart. This one is a love song with a difference, the subject of the singer’s affections, and her allure, clearly described in glowing terms. But she is the one pulling the strings here. The instrumental section late in the track brings the pace down further before the big finish that works very well.

Find Myself takes the pace up again behind a solid drum beat. There’s a lovely positivity to the lyrics, which are again backed by a fine guitar melody. The chorus is repeated towards the end of the song, building to a crescendo and finishing the EP on a real high note.

This EP tells you in four tracks all you need to know about the high quality music of The Imagineers. The four well crafted songs are infectious, using a mix of great harmonies and lovely melodies. The crisp production makes every word and every note clear. And the overall result is a fine EP from a band that never fails to delight.

Venue: Karma Soundcheck : Part 1
Support Band: The Imagineers