Live Review

The Imagineers – Nice n Sleazy, Glasgow

• 2nd Apr 2011

The small downstairs room at Nice n Sleazy’s in Glasgow was packed to what looked like well beyond its capacity last night. The Imagineers were headlining a special free home town gig to launch their excellent EP See As I Say, and it was quite a party.

First up was Jamie Keenan, normally seen as drummer with Motherwell band The LaFontaines. He played an entertaining and eclectic acoustic set that ranged from the humorous to covers of Maggie’s Farm and Dream Lover. As well as guitar he also used a foot pedal to play bass drum.

Next came a lively acoustic set from Cal and Paul of Glasgow band The Only Jones. They combined well, playing rhythm and some nice lead parts between them. Highlights were the love song All My Life and the catchy Clothes for Goalposts, a tale of childhood dreams.

The Imagineers played a fine set as always. Their brand of indie rock with Latin undertones is both passionate and powerful and their many fans loved every minute of it. The atmosphere was excellent from the start as they danced and swayed at the front of the room, singing along with every word.

In addition to the four members of the band, there were also two violinists and a French horn player on duty, which added much to the sound.

Opening with the always uplifting Fairground, the band were on top form from the off. Stevie Young’s vocals were strong and true and the band backed him admirably. Stephen Forbes on drums was powerful, driving the beat forward along with Ali Grieg, whose bass lines cut through the mix.

Guitarist Scott Bonnyman, the most recent addition to the line up, showed what he brings to the band with some nice lead work. And he also took the vocals on two tracks including a fine cover of Shakin’ All Over.

The four tracks making up the EP were the pick of the set, especially the boisterous Mariana. This tale of longing was passionate and moving, the music falling before the big chorus with the crowd joining in.

Spanish Sands is an infectious song with a chorus that grows, while Imagineer was fast paced and driven along by the drum beat. Hour of Need slowed things slightly, with the violins adding a haunting tone to this excellent track.

The Imagineers have already built a fine reputation on the Scottish scene as a live act. This EP and a spring tour that will see the band play in several major cities across the UK should now allow them to take their music to a wider audience.

If you haven’t been lucky enough to see The Imagineers play yet, make sure you don’t miss the opportunity. You won’t be disappointed.