ep review: the great imposter, find structure through the chaos
If you’re a fan of cabaret-rock, and have ever wondered what would happen if Ben Folds Five and The Dresden Dolls did the nookie, then look no further. The result of this tryst would be The Great Imposter, a Melbourne-based, piano-led, cabaret-rock troupe, arriving on the scene with their debut EP Find Structure Through the Chaos.
Find Structure Through the Chaos could best be described as a strange, sinister dinner party, where guests don top hats and capes, and dine on caviar, grapes and red wine, while a monkey plays the piano-accordion in the corner. The EP is appealing in the way that it is completely unique from what is currently out there, and for a group who only formed last year, this is something.
The EP opens briefly with staccato piano, followed by smashing drums and trumpet as a taste of what’s to follow. As the EP progresses, it’s easy to imagine yourself in the audience of a bittersweet musical, complete with a big band and a strong, mysterious solo voice – sad and strange, yet cheerful at the same time.
The third track Tell Me. What? Tell Me Again has obvious rock elements throughout. It’s little different from previous tracks, being upbeat, exciting and wonderful to dance to. Elastic, the fourth track, is fast and flowing, with deep piano and a good beat. It is powerful and nostalgic, with sad melodies and haunting vocals, almost whispering in comparison to the other tracks.
Like a spontaneous dance, Find Structure Through the Chaos bounces from angry, to happy, to strange, to melancholic and at times, it is difficult to keep up. The songs blur into a strange dream and you feel yourself getting lost in the music. You can’t come up for air – but none of that matters.
In parts the EP is lonely and weird, and then surprises you with bursts of energy. It’s like that strange, mysterious guest at a party, who you really want to talk to, but you’re scared of the effect they’ll have on you. Do yourself a favour a listen to this weird, engrossing, beautiful piece of art. You will be pleasantly surprised.
