Imperial Leisure - Great British Summertime (Juno)

Emily Sergent | Friday, 15 August 2008

Imperial Leisure are impossible to classify, but apparently they have no interest in being plonked into any particular genre. At a push you would have to go for describing them as being some kind of warped hybrid mix of punk, ska, rock and rap all thrown in together.

Funnily enough though, it works. Latest single release 'Great British Summertime' really emphasises what this band is all about. With its hi-energy infectiousness you'll find your head involuntarily nodding along at the first listen. It's like the Beastie Boys, The Specials and The Streets have all been thrown into a washing machine and spun at full speed.

With ten making up the band, it's no surprise Imperial Leisure's music has so much oomph to it. Throughout 'Great British Summertime' it becomes clear that these lads work well together and - more importantly - they have fun doing so. The bounce-along-style music is fuelled by the group's enthusiasm which shines all the way through this record.

It may not be everyone’s cup of tea but it's a refreshing break from a lot of the other stuff that's around at the moment. With rapping vocals, an anthemic chorus and more brassy hooks than you can shake a stick at, this single is a chaotic gem that's hard to ignore.

Rating: 4/5