On their fourth album, ‘Origins,’ Grammy-winning alternative rock band Imagine Dragons has some moments, but ultimately, falls short.

Once upon a time, the excitement over new music from Imagine Dragons was incredibly high.  After Dan Reynolds and company blessed the world with hits such as “Radioactive” and “Demons” from their 2012 debut album, Night Visions, it seemed as if the collective could do no wrong.  That’s not quite been the case, at least from a personal perspective.  While the rockers have had their share of hits, their albums post-Night Visions – specifically Evolve – have been mixed.  While their latest LP, Origins, has some moments worth mentioning, it still doesn’t give the band that surefire, can’t-miss project.

 “Natural” 

✓  “Natural” commences with an enigmatic introduction, composed of a rich choral vocal pad. Confirming the darkness, the record is set in a minor key. The first verse doesn’t begin with a clearly-defined groove. After Dan Reynolds begins and continues to sing on the first verse, the ear perceives the pulse, seeing where “Natural” will eventually arrive. The first pre-chorus has more rhythmic definition, though it isn’t until the chorus that the listener is treated to the signature hard-hitting drums.  Besides the gargantuan nature of the chorus, another expectation is fulfilled – catchiness and memorability.

“Natural

A beating heart of stone

You gotta be so cold

To make it in this world

Yeah, you’re a natural

Living your life cutthroat

You gotta be so cold

Yeah, you’re a natural.”

The second verse begins with the groove in place, making it feel more stable than the first.  As always, Reynolds serves up clear, nuanced vocals.  He’s at his best when he roars, achieving that signature edge.  Even so, the fact that Reynolds exhibits more poise on the bridge, contrasting the heavy chorus is a selling point.

“Boomerang”

✓ “Boomerang” has a tough act to follow, but holds its own.  The record features some tropical cues, led by the world music-infused groove.  As always, Reynolds is on-point with assertive pipes, particularly on another golden chorus.  Depth isn’t the modus operandi, but Imagine Dragons continue to stay true to themselves.

“‘Cause I’ve been wondering / When you gonna see I’m not for sale / I’ve been questioning / When you gonna see I’m not part of your machine / Not a part of your machine.” The sound of ✓ “Machine” is characterized by its hard-nosed drum programming, and overall heaviness and intensity. Reynolds serves up unique vocals initially, a change of pace from what listeners are accustomed to.  Notably, his approach is much more restrained on the verses.  The lyrics are relatively ‘familiar,’ in the context of Imagine Dragons that is. Soon enough, the powerful, shouted vocals of Reynolds take over.  Besides those signature pipes, the guitars ‘roar’ on the chorus, excerpted at the top of the critique. The sound is definitely boisterous, while the tonal center makes the most sense on the chorus, where it’s a bit more nebulous and unsettled on the verses.  Also, worth noting is the instrumental section – a nice break from the vocals, as well as a change of pace.

“Cool Out” 

✓ “Cool Out” seems to hearken back to the pop of old – or at least the 80s. The production is a huge reason for the success of this record, easily among the best of Origins. Vocally, Reynolds successfully exhibits poise, showcasing the beauty of his instrument without over-singing. Once more, the chorus is essential to the track’s overall success. “Oh, hush, my dear, it’s been a difficult year.” Reynolds gets personal on “Bad Liar,” which is based on his ‘split’ from his wife, singer/songwriter Aja Volkman. As the title suggests, he admits to being a ‘bad liar,’ telling her at the end of the chorus, “Now you know, you’re free to go.”

“West Coast” has some similarities to previous folksy/country-driven songs previously released by Imagine Dragons.  Perhaps that’s why it irks me a bit. Or maybe, it’s the pre-chorus, where Reynolds sings, “I ain’t no Superman, I ain’t no Holy Ghost / I’m just the one that keeps you up at night, loves you the most.” Not sure, but it doesn’t quite tickle my fancy. It’s not a dud by any means, but the fact that it’s not as good as similar tracks is a rub. The driving “Zero” follows, appearing on the Original motion picture soundtrack for Ralph Breaks the Internet. The up-tempo joint thrives off its energy without ever reaching ‘hit status.’

“Bullet in a Gun”

“Bullet in a Gun” embraces the band’s hip-hop leanings. No, Reynolds hasn’t began rapping (thank goodness), but there’s clearly an urban vibe. As slickly produced as anything else, the melody on the verses is a tad bit irritating…just saying. “Digital” follows, marking the third production by Alex da Kid (“Machine” and “Bullet in a Gun”).  A wacky joint, the spirit of Imagine Dragons is undeniable. As for the song and songwriting… not for everybody.  “Aye, aye, aye, aye, digital, digital.” 

Three more songs grace the standard edition of Origins. The minor-key “Only” features some terrific synths, cutting right through the production.  Perhaps the best moment of the album is the chorus – shocking right? On the penultimate “Stuck,” Reynolds can’t seem to get past her – “Time goes by and still I’m stuck on you.” Speaking of matters of the heart, the band gets socially-conscious on the all-encompassing closer, “Love.” “Where did we all go wrong?” Reynolds asks on the chorus, continuing, simply, “Love, love, love.” The deluxe edition of Origins adds three more songs: “Birds,” “Burn Out,” and “Real Life.”

Final Thoughts 

So, how does Origins stack up for Imagine Dragons? Um, it’s okay at best, but nothing ‘earth shattering’ by my estimations.  There have been critics who completely panned it (theneedledrop gave them the ‘Not Good’ treatment), while AllMusic’s Stephen Thomas Erlewine was more generous in his review (3 ½ stars).  Personally, this effort feels a shade below average, mainly because the band feels incredibly predictable.  While a record like “Cool Out” shows a slightly different side of the band, the collective still needs to ‘step their game up.’

✓ Gems: “Natural,” “Boomerang” “Machine” & “Cool Out”

Imagine Dragons » Origins » Interscope » Release: 11.9.18

Photo Credit: Interscope