The Imaginary Band, longtime Chilliwack, BC-based musician Andrew Christopher‘s latest project, steps fully into focus on their debut single, “Polka Hands.” A carefree, roots-leaning indie-folk single, it celebrates intuition, creativity, and the beauty of not overthinking life’s next move.

“At first, The Imaginary Band only existed vaguely in my mind,” explains Christopher. “But when I wrote ‘Polka Hands,’ I learned to fully embrace the concept.” Without a bass player at the time, he began playing a bassline on guitar, imagining exactly how it would feel once the right players arrived. “Immediately, an imaginary drummer sat behind the kit in my head, laying down a groovy but straight-ahead rock beat. Just sitting in the pocket. That’s still the intro of the song.”

• What can you share with readers about your new project? 
  It was such a natural, and quick progression from a solo project into a full band. It seemed like each month, for 6 months, someone new came into my life or resurfaced from the past and there was this connection through music that just fit perfectly and BAM, we’re now a band. 
  
• How does this release compare with your other projects you had in the past?
  It’s a much more full sound, obviously, but most importantly the craftsmanship of the songs has risen to a new level. Not just because of my own maturity as an artist but because of the musicianship of the band. 
  
• What about this single makes you most proud?
  It’s uplifting. Happy songs are hard to write for me. 
  
• Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release?
  There was already a bit of a buzz around locally, and this single is meant to keep that buzz building, and our fanbase growing, up to the release of the full album. 
  
• What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going?
  It’s always been my family first and foremost, for both those questions. I have a wife and three amazing children. I have a daughter who passed away at a very young age from cancer. I had a messy childhood with my three older sisters and my mom who I love dearly. It’s all family driven.
  
• If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? If it’s an indie/DIY artist, please include a link so readers can check them out.
  I think Dave Matthews and I could jive pretty well together. What a dream that would be. Or Rick Rubin has this similar kind of ‘feel guy’ energy to him that I seem to possess. He doesn’t know why it’s the answer, he just knows it’s the answer. 
  
• What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists?
  Last song I listened to was the Smashing Pumpkins on CFOX 99.3 Vancouver! I can’t remember which song though so I guess I wasn’t really listening. Favourite Band is The Tragically Hip no doubt. Dave Matthews Band is a close second.  
  
• Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?
  Patreon would be great. It’s really helpful for musicians like me trying to budget for this stuff. You can also just join for free and get updates. Patreon.com/andrewchristopher or instagram @theimaginarybandmusic
  
• I really appreciate your time. Is there anything you’d like to share before we sign off?
  Lets focus on a less competitive mindset and a more collaborative one everywhere in life, but especially in the arts.