Imperative Reaction - Functional (Album Version)

Lyrics - 5
Vocal Performance -4
Orchestration - 3
Dynamics - 2
Mix -3
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This LA-native band has changed directions several times since their forming in 1996. As Ted Phelps sings about the line between progress and decline, this song walks a line between grungy-industrial and a kind of progressive rock. The lyrics are most impressive, addressing a general ignorance that permeates much of modern Western society and the sacrifices necessary to sustain indulgent consumerism. The vocals are both versed and performed well, though this energy doesn't entirely carry over to the other elements of the song. The lead synth is appropriately big and edgy, but is almost abrasively persistent and tends to get in the way of the vocals. The percussive elements are also fairly stagnant, but they are mixed in well with the synth (sounds like there is some sidechaining happening, at least in the verses). The vocals, though, sometimes sound distant and not "in the mix" dynamically, and ! a bit more variety in the groove elements couldn't hurt. Overall, the song has great energy and is admittedly catchy - rebellious, reflective and modern, but not overly thrashy or angry. I for one will be keeping an eye on these guys.

- Review by Scott Farquhar