Ima Robot

Los Angeles-bred Ima Robot makes hooky, punky modern rock out of terribly fashionable musical byproducts. The band started in the early '90s, just willowy Alex Ebert and crazy Timmy Anderson making beats and trying to rap. The stardom-dreaming duo was eventually joined by electronics whiz Oligee, and the trio hit the L.A. music scene with a wiry, fiery mix of electronics, guitar, and sort-of singing. Buzz occurred, and soon crack session pros Justin Meldal-johnsen and Joey Waronker had joined the fold on bass and drums, respectively. A deal with Virgin followed, and the Public Access EP soon appeared. Ima Robot dropped in September 2003; it showcases a more focused, radio/video-ready sound. Tours with likeminded types like Hot Hot Heat have helped get the word out. With a new lineup consisting of Ebert, Anderson, Filip Nikolic (bass), Scott Devours (drums), and Andy Marlow (guitar/keys), Ima Robot issued their second album, Monument for the Masses, in September 2006. ~ Johnny Loftus, All Music Guide