IMOGEN BRAVE
OPEN HEART EP

By Shayne Bishop

As far as debut EP’s go, “Open Heart” from Imogen Brave is a winner!

Part pop, part rock and part alternative, with just a few punkish moments thrown in for good measure. All of the elements come together to create a very solid listening experience, and a sound that is very original.

The vocals from Stef Crowley are simply perfect. More than just a hint of Gwen Stefani influence shines through, particularly on the opening track "Walk Away", while her talents truly shine on "Missing You Dearly". The rhythm section provided by Andy Cienciala on drums and Neil Pearce on Bass is superb, and Mick McClounan on guitars can't be faulted. Imogen Brave appear to be a well practised and confident unit, and they write tunes that would comfortably slot onto any commercial radio station.

"Desperate Lines, Open Doors" is quite reminiscent of Australian alternative band Something With Numbers, while "Exit Collapses" is a little Killing Heidi. The final moment on the EP, "Love is Like (Open Heart)" is possibly the moodiest and most frantic the EP gets, and is the perfect way to close out this debut.

After only 5 songs, I am left wanting more... And that is a good thing!