This review is part two of a three-part series examining the most recent releases from the three artists performing at this year's Springfest. Last week, we looked at Lostprophets' "Start Something," and next week we'll be looking at Hoobastank's "The Reason."
Mullets, Molly Ringwald movies and Culture Club are a few endearing moments of the '80s that should be preserved. There is a reason so many people reflect fondly on that decade. Its characteristics are so beautifully unlike any other that they should not be tampered with or mimicked.
The five members of the Los Angeles, Calif.-based band Ima Robot are offenders for participating in the recent resurgence of '80s style in today's music. Drawing from the shaky-voiced and often speech-like vocals of '80s rock stars, Ima Robot sounds too much like a band that should been condemned, rather than acclaimed, 15 years ago.
On the band's self-titled album, electronic beats and synthesizer effects dominate the sound not otherwise consumed by lead vocalist Alex Ebert. While the album is fast-paced and some songs suggest a need to bust out neon high-tops for dancing, the album lacks a catchy quality that would set it apart.
The deranged lyrics of many songs like "Dynomite," "Dirty Life" and "Here Come the Bombs" do not match well with the carefree attitude suggested by the upbeat '80s style that serves as the bands foundation. "Alive," however, possesses likeable lyrics with a more modern approach to the accompanying music.
Ebert's almost manufactured (by the '80s) voice is comparable to that of Steve Bays, lead vocalist of Hot Hot Heat, a band that similarly draws inspiration from past music trends (of the '70s).
Another band of similar taste, The Darkness, is helping to pave the way alongside bands like Ima Robot, who appear compelled by the craze of moving back into an older style of rock.
Although from a slightly different era - and an elevated league - some of the energy and beats that dwell within Ima Robot are a reminder of The Ramones.
Enthusiasm and enticing energy are the strong points of the group, its main fault residing in its attempt to recreate a sound that belongs where it originated - in the past. Unfortunately for Roger Ebert fans out there, this is not a "two thumbs up" album.
This comes recommended for fans of Hot Hot Heat, Electric Six and the Vines.
Photo: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki
