Possible to impress

Bloomington’s very own art/folk rock dynasty The Impossible Shapes are fresh off their return to the studio with a new self-titled album. Compared to some of the band’s previous works, the new material is more musically minimalist, but it certainly stands on its own.

An eclectic mix of musical stylings, The Impossible Shapes’ self-titled album wavers between art rock, folk and punk/classic/modern rock. The different genres blend together surprisingly well, and there is something for every music lover in this grab bag of audio treats, including some kick-ass guitar solos.

The album kicks off with a vivifying rock guitar riff in “Hey!” and proceeds to take the listener on a roller-coaster ride of sonic absorption. “Our Secret Operation” features a punk rock-inspired intro that soon shifts into a psychedelic keyboard break, all the while the song is engulfed with brooding lyrics: “As thin memories pass through lime disease/ She draws me dreaming her.”

“I Loved Every One of Your Daughters” is another adventure through ominous lyrics and eerie-sounding vocals. While the singing is the glue that holds the material together, it does take a few listens to really appreciate.

Perfect for a late-night car ride or just before bed, “Infinity’s Lips” is a serene tune that showcases the group’s banjo skills. The band has a video for the song on YouTube.
“Let The People Build What They Will,” with spacey guitars and a punching bass line played over an enduring keyboard, is reminiscent of the early Pink Floyd album Piper at the Gates of Dawn.

Through the last decade, The Impossible Shapes have proven that they are one of Bloomington’s most-prized super groups. The members hail from such outside bands as John Wilkes Booze, The Coke Dares, NormanOak and Horns of Happiness, but The Impossible Shapes will certainly be the great legacy that remains of each member.

Recorded here in Bloomington at the Art Hospital, The Impossible Shapes prove that local, original music is alive and well and will not stop fighting the festering disease that is known as the cover band.