By: Liz Levine
Rating: 9/11

The Imperialists make intricate punk rock music updated for an indie-soaked audience, shifting between poppy summertime ditties and angry anti-establishments ragers. Declaring themselves the “Dictators of Rock & Roll,” rampant enthusiasm bleeds through wicked guitar solos, group harmonies, and distinct snare bangs. Despite their evocative name, a goofiness pervades each track, whether through silly lyrics or the sense that the band consists of a group of friends intent on having a good time. This lightness, heightened by the call-and-response vocal accompaniment that demands full band involvement reminiscent of The Born Ruffians, can slip into a harder, heavier grove just as easily the entire group transitions. The rollicking “Ice Cream” is a fun little number that’s poppy and bright, declaring, “I know I want something what I really want I want ice cream” through hand claps and airy strumming. Conversely, “Chocolate Government” takes aggressive Spanish guitar and jumps into a quick-paced punk anthem, yelling angry words about political leaders before lightening up with a Jim Morrison interlude and a happy chorus of singers noting “I wanna get high.” The Imperialists craft songs that are fun yet pertinent, elevating a very talented group of musicians to noteworthy heights.