I’ve been known to make premature overstatements about how good or bad some music is. Some turn out to be supportive and others, not so much. For example, when country artist Dustin Lynch released his premiere single “Cowboys and Angels,” I promptly proclaimed he would go on to be one of the most respected new artists in country music and release a multi-platinum album packed with numerous hits.  Well, his album came out and his next single was called “She Cranks My Tractor.”  Needless to say, that prediction didn’t exactly pan out, but here’s one that I will not regret saying: Imagine Dragons is the most innovative band in the music scene today.

But how can I say this? They just released their first album nine months ago! This statement seems a little premature. Well, allow me to explain.

Their first album “Night Visions” is draped head-to-toe in meaningful lyrics sitting atop beautifully assembled electric beats. Their ability to belt out a rock song while simultaneously making their listeners’ knees weak, as if they are listening to a slow ballad, is unprecedented. Throughout the pop era of music (1950s-present), there has been an unwritten distinction between a “slow” song and a “fast” song. Basically, when people hear few instruments, they consider it a slow ballad and when there is heavy instrumentation, a song now becomes a fast rock song. In “Night Visions,” Imagine Dragons disproves this premise.

“Night Visions” is the first time I can throw in an album and listen all the way through in any mood. If you are in a happy mood, the songs are happy. If you are in a sad mood, they seem sad. Remarkably, the songs mold to the mood you are in. This crossover is near impossible to achieve, yet Imagine Dragons executes it seamlessly and makes it sound easy. Perhaps it is because these songs were written during the low points in their lives, yet give a positive outlook on situations. This makes the music relatable to everyone and generates appeal to a broad audience.

After using their unfailing creativity and sheer talent to produce a meteoric rise to stardom, the band has now released an iTunes Session EP that shows further versatility. The Las Vegas band stripped down their set to display their acoustic side. What jumps to the spotlight from this is the subtle carelessness found in lead singer Dan Reynold’s voice, which makes it seem effortless. Imagine Dragons show how they can sound good in any environment with any number of instruments. The EP contains three fan favorites from their album-“It’s Time,” “Radioactive” and “Amsterdam”-and two new songs, “30 Lives” and “Destination.” 

If you have not yet reaped the benefits of Imagine Dragons’ handiwork, please go listen to their music now.  If you are already a fan, be sure to go pick up their new iTunes Session – you won’t regret it.