draconian - 3-19-2004 at 06:44 PM
This album review comes at you from Nailedshut.com:
IMA Robot - IMA Robot
Are there enough Los Angeles based bands on the scene? Fortunately, IMA Robot does not fit the mold of any band around the LA area. The band have
crafted a sound of their own and if anything, a style of their own. Hitting the scene quickly, IMA Robot has made a name for them touring with big
rock names such as H****stank and Lostprophets. IMA Robot's self-titled release was put out September '03 through major label Virgin Records
that is a highly unlikely match for the band. Virgin being a label based around heavy hitting artists (The Rolling Stones, Mariah Carey) and mediocre
rock groups (The Exies, 30 Seconds To Mars), a synth-rock band like IMA Robot is unexpected to fit in with their roster.
Disregarding their label, IMA Robot has made an album that is worth a listen or two. The album starts off with Alex Ebert (vocalist) proclaiming
"here's a story for the kids" on the song "Dynomite." In comparison, Alex Ebert's vocals throughout the album could be
contrasted to Steve Bay of Hot Hot Heat. What really makes IMA Robot standout is clearly Oligee's use of synthesizers. The album ranges from hard
hitting rock songs such as "A is for Action" and their first single "Alive" to the soft harmonies of "Let's Talk
Turkey" and the remarkable "Scream." Besides the song "Scream," another prominent track on the album lies in between the
rock and harmonies on the album as the song "12=3" gives IMA Robot medium. The album also shows other signs originality as the bass line of
"Dirty Life" gives off a funk feel.
What is most appealing to the album is its gifted use of synthesizers. There is no song on this album that leaves out this important element of synth.
The song "Song #1" thrives off this element as at times, it almost sounds as though Devo had created the song.
IMA Robot would be much better off if they used more harmonies throughout the songs rather than trying to win over fans with their rock approach.
Nonetheless, they deserve credit for putting out an impressive debut album. IMA Robot is an entertaining album for anyone who may be accustomed to The
Network, Devo, or dare I say Hot Hot Heat.
[Edited on 3-20-2004 by draconian]