IMAGINAL CELLS – “Battle Cry” beats with a fervent call for unity and resistance
Prepare to be captivated. Emerging from the vibrant musical landscape of Phoenix, Arizona, a sonic force is coalescing, ready to unleash a torrent of sound and thought upon the world. Introducing IMAGINAL CELLS, a modern progressive metal collective forged from a rich and diverse musical heritage. This is not just another band; it’s an experience, a journey, a potent commentary wrapped in layers of intricate musicianship and profound lyrical depth.
The pedigree of IMAGINAL CELLS is undeniable. Comprised of Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning artists and featuring a member who once contributed their talents to the esteemed 80s recording act Sacred Rite (Medusa/Restless Records, Axe Killer Records, No Remorse), the band arrives with a wealth of experience and a clear vision. Their forthcoming concept album, Purified, a testament to their meticulous craft, has been sculpted to sonic perfection by the multiple award-winning Jimmy Caterine during the mixing stage and burnished to a brilliant sheen by the legendary mastering touch of Maor Appelbaum. This is a record handled with the utmost care, destined for both the tangible embrace of vinyl and the boundless expanse of the digital realm.
The very essence of IMAGINAL CELLS’ music is rooted in the earth, resonating with organic textures and the primal pulse of pounding tribal polyrhythms. Their sonic tapestry is woven with a classic sensibility, reminiscent of the giants of Progressive Rock and Heavy Metal, yet imbued with a fresh and distinctive character. Lush vocal harmonies intertwine with meticulously crafted sampled sounds drawn from the heart of nature, creating an auditory landscape that is both familiar and strikingly new. Their compositions are not mere collections of notes; they are dynamic, densely interwoven structures that reward repeated listening, revealing new nuances with each immersion. Beneath the surface of their intricate soundscapes lie hard-hitting lyrics, acutely relevant and designed to provoke thought, fearlessly addressing the pressing sociopolitical and environmental challenges of our time.
The conceptual bedrock of Purified is ambitious and timely. Drawing inspiration from the stark apocalyptic prophecies of various Native American tribal elders, the album delves into the notion of a cataclysmic immune response from a living Earth pushed beyond its limits by a human species teetering precariously out of balance. The narrative thread that binds the songs together explores the chilling concept of Wetiko, a contagious psycho-spiritual disease deeply embedded in Algonquian folklore. This “cannibalistic mind parasite” serves as a potent metaphor for the pervasive forces of gluttony, selfishness, and greed that threaten to consume not only our societies but the very planet we inhabit. Purified promises to be an immersive journey, a stark and poignant reflection of these critical times, delivered through compelling musical passages and evocative soundscapes.
As a potent precursor to this ambitious album, IMAGINAL CELLS has unleashed their latest single, Battle Cry. This track serves as an immediate and visceral statement of intent. It explodes into existence with an arresting introduction, a sonic detonation that quickly gives way to a relentless barrage of thunderous drum fills, escalating with breathtaking intensity into a full-fledged metal anthem. In a compelling shift from their more overtly progressive tendencies, IMAGINAL CELLS here delves deep into their heavy metal roots, delivering a high-energy rallying cry that demands attention.
The lyrical heart of Battle Cry beats with a fervent call for unity and resistance. It is an urgent plea for listeners to transcend the divisive tactics that fragment society and to confront the insidious forces of corruption and manipulation that cast a long shadow over our world. The song’s fiery message burns with indignation against the destructive exploitation of the planet’s precious resources, igniting a spark of defiance and inspiring collective action. It’s a sonic fist raised in solidarity, an empowering anthem that makes it virtually impossible to remain a passive observer. This is a track designed to move you, to galvanize you, to make you want to join the fight.
The architects behind this compelling sound are Ethan Foxx (lead vocal and guitar), whose voice and six-string prowess anchor the band’s sonic identity; the virtuosic lead guitar work of Jimmy Caterine, adding layers of melodic complexity and fiery solos; the atmospheric and textural landscapes crafted by Eric Barker on keyboards; the solid and driving foundation laid down by Peter Crane on bass; and the powerhouse drumming of Steve Hambruch, whose percussive assault fuels the band’s dynamic energy. Together, they are IMAGINAL CELLS, and with Battle Cry, they have issued a powerful invitation to listen, to think, and to act. Prepare to be moved. Prepare to be challenged. Prepare for IMAGINAL CELLS.
