Imperative Reaction
"Imperative Reaction"

Label: Dependent (2011)

Once a band decides to name the sixth album after themselves you instantly realize that this album marks a significant change for them. Exactly this happened with Imperative Reactions current album and you immediately notice the different attitude once listening to it. “I decided that this album would be a new beginning for Imperative Reaction,” says Ted Phelps of the bands upcoming self-titled release. Showcasing an evolved sound that combines the band’s explosive live show with the precise, electronic anthems Imperative Reaction has built its name on, Imperative Reaction is as much a summation as it is a huge step forward for a band never content to rest on past successes. In Phelps’ words: “It is our defining album.”
The change is immediately clear on the forthcoming single, “Surface.” Grinding synthesizers merge with a pummeling dance beat that gives way to a huge chorus comprised of a wall of guitar and larger-than-life gang vocals. “Side Effect” opens Imperative Reaction with a groove that builds into an all out dance floor assault. “Song Of The Martyr” and “Time Doesn’t Care” marry crushing electronics with rock guitars and IR’s signature vocal hooks, while “Siphon”, with it’s dance beat and sing-song chorus, proves that the band can update its sound without losing its club roots.
From the cold beauty of “Torture” to the unbridled anger of “Closure”, melody and aggression interlock and combust throughout Imperative Reaction to form a career defining album. Imperative Reaction is an electronic club-rock masterpiece that showcases a band in its prime; ready to blow any preconceived notions out of the water. There is no escape.

Imperative Reaction official website