STUDIO UPDATE: IMAGINARY JACK

Local folk-rock quartet Imaginary Jack is in the process of inking a record deal with Darren Jackson's indie label Speakerphone Records. Jackson is currently been producing and recording the bands forthcoming (and still untitled) full-length album in his personal studio. The word is that he has been a very "hands on" producer thus far, pushing the band to dig deeper and record a "great" album.


Jackson is no novice, with over a decade's worth of experience making "great" records with Kid Dakota, The Hopefuls, and Alva Star, among others. He shared some insight on producing albums on the Creepy Sleepy Show Podcast in 2006. Have a listen HERE.

Imaginary Jack has developed considerably over the past several months since versatile drummer Eric Whalen (The Brilliant Beast, ex-High Fashion Wigs, ex-Accident Waiting to Happen) joined the group. Many of the songs they are currently recording and performing live were already released on one of their previous albums or EPs. Those recordings do NOT do justice to where the band is at now. The difference between today and 2007, of course, is the confidence and cohesiveness the band exudes. Whalen's addition to the group is no small part of that--The former drummer had an 18-piece drum kit and a busy, thrash metal style that did not complement the band's overall sound well. Their growth is also a testament to the idea of "living with songs" for a while before you record them. Their live show (and most likely their upcoming album) is very tight and nuanced; showcasing their musicianship, unyielding unity, and clear knack for textured arrangements.

The sky is very bright for Imaginary Jack. Their persistence and hard work seem to be paying off. In my opinion, this is the best possible time for them to be making a higher-profile album and gaining exposure. Look for big things from them, including a regional tour in 2010. You can catch them live at Acadia Cafe on the last Saturday of every month. February 27th has them performing with local indie-rock duo The Chord and the Fawn, who are playing at my Driftless Showcase at Acadia on March 19th.

Whalen is my housemate and the band practices in my basement each week. The two Imaginary Jack photos in this post are from a photo-shoot in the practice space. You can view the full set HERE