Eclectic Scottish four-piece The Imagineers make a welcome return with their latest album release Utopian Dreams, out now via Hit The Light Records.
The album is full of melodic twists and turns throughout; taking in elements of west coast surf, baroque pop, and singer songwriter, giving the album a film score feel. However, there is no denying a clear brill building pop inspiration and the band’s unique take on it, creating a sonic storyboard that could have starred the likes of Burt Bacharach and David Bowie, orchestrated by Ennio Morricone. The Imagineers have endeavoured to create an intriguing sound akin to The Growlers combined with a storytelling quality that would make Ben Folds proud. Lead singer Steven Young’s (vocals, guitar) undeniable Scottish twang, as well as the band’s natural cinematic flare, mean that The Imagineers have created a sound uniquely their own.
In this interview spotlight, we chat with singer Steven Young about the band’s influences, their newest project, the digital music world and more.
Full Q&A along with links and the video for Californians Drive All Day (In The Sunshine) below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre(s) or style(s)?
The greatest artists pull you into their world, their landscape, they paint a picture with words and music, a state of mind, atmosphere, feeling, spirit, flavour, it evokes all of your senses and experiences in life. Think of the greatest albums you’ve loved, you might have bought them on vinyl, they’re precious and take you to place, drawn into their world, talk of genre almost seems meaningless when listening to these masterpieces, a disrespect. For me there’s only two types of music, good and bad.
What led you into this journey with music? And further, what drives you to push it out to the public?
I think music chooses you, it’s something driven by passion, a desire, a yearning for expression, artists and in particular musicians make life more tolerable and enriched in so many ways, worthy living. “Life without music would be a mistake”
Who or what influences your creativity? Have your tastes in music changed over time?
I like to dip into music documentaries when I’m needing a little inspiration. I caught Nick Cave’s 20, 000 days on earth film a few days back, that seemed to open the banks again.
I used to be really into rap as a teenager. At the moment i”m having a bit of Surf, Pop, Spaghetti Westerns, and Jazz!
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?
It began as a 4 track acoustic EP, and became a 13 track big band epic. We just went with the flow until it felt right. But as always, melody is king.
What was the last song you listened to?
‘Radar’ by a Glasgow band called Eugene Twist, check them out.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
It’s got to be Vinyl, for the warmth of sound.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
I’ve only ever used Spotify.
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what is the biggest challenge you face when trying to connect with or find new fans?
Money, average music can do well with great marketing. I know lots of great music that’s barely made a splash in the ocean. it takes more than talent.
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more music?
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