Imperial Teen started as the side project of Roddy Bottum, the keyboardplayer extraordinaire of Faith No More. It seemed, almost, that Bottumwas desperately trying to explore some pop rock roots with the band,because although Faith No More had their own hits with 'We Care a Lot'and later with 'Epic', they were definitely nota pop band by any means. So, Imperial Teen began, releasing two albumsthat were seemingly well received by journalists and audiences alike.Now, however, the game plan has changed a bit. Faith No More are nomore, and Bottum has nothing else to concentrate on, so the stops havebeen yanked out and the fun can begin. Hear me: "On" is Imperial Teenat their best, accentuating the pop sensibility while placing their ownkitschy stank on it, and all the while seeming to present it all withtongue planted firmly in cheek. Yes, this is a band that knows not totake itself too seriously, but still plays out the favorites for thereal fans. Things start strong on the CD, but really get underway by'Million $ Man', showing the true colors of the discotheque moment wellwhile including the flavor of the past. The presence and prescience ofproducer Anna Waronker (formerly of That Dog) is definitely felt, asthe pop has a gloss that carries her signature. Not that the band isoutdone or overshadowed by it: they have their own agenda. These songsare crisp, concise, and they make you tap your feet and sing out loudlike the whole world was your shower. It's the perfect rock record foryou to take to your summer cookout, and no one will criticize you foryour personal choice of hot dog. If you don't believe me, check out thepoppy sound samples for a little of that boy-girl harmony simplicity.More than likely not their best work, but certainly a step in the rightdirection.
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