Local rock musician Iman or Nuriman Md Nor can be considered a nomad in the local music scene, plying his trade in various bands such as fronting the band Frostymug which is currently on hiatus, playing the keyboards for popular Malay band Rancour who were the winners in Mediacorp Suria's Anugerah Band 08 competition and formerly sessioning as the drummer for punk rock outfit Random Arrival, among others. A veteran in the local scene with years of experience and being a talented multi-instrumentalist due to being proficient in every department available for a rock band from vocals to guitars to bass to drums to keyboards, it's only a matter of time before Iman decide to release a solo effort.
And so, Iman formed his solo pop-punk project Iman's League and released his debut EP in July called 'Crossing Rivers'. I was introduced to this EP when my band performed together with Iman's League at a previous show where Iman was launching the EP, which he sold for a mere S$3 each to the show attendees as an introductory offer. We were treated to the songs off the EP at the show and I was happy with what I'm hearing and told myself to listen to the EP as soon I get home.
After a couple of listens, I got myself going back to the tracks from time to time. What I love about the EP is that this is a classic, straight up pop-punk effort. No complicated riffs, no experimentation, no screamings, just pure fun pop-punk. There is a strong American pop-punk influence when you listen to the sound, think No Use For A Name etc. Simple hooks and melodies are preferred and the lyrics take the spotlight instead of the instruments that are played. The songs are catchy and easy to relate to, dealing with everyday issues such as friendship and relationship among others. Before you dismiss this EP as an emo-fest, the songs are actually uplifting and positive in nature.
Standout tracks definitely would be the title track 'Crossing Rivers', a simple, catchy song with simple riffs to go along which would have you singing along to it without you knowing it. 'A Moment At A Time' is another great song where we are treated by some delightful piano playing at the start by Iman before it goes to the trademark pop-punk sound that is showcased throughout the album.
Album art and finish is impressive and also, the mixing and recording are decent enough to compete with releases by fellow pop-punk bands locally or even on the regional level. Fans of pop-punk should definitely get their hands on this EP. It's not about supporting the local scene, that's all good but for me, it is always about supporting GOOD local products and this here, is a good local release by a good local band. Easily one of the best items I have bought at only S$3.
Band: Iman's League
Album / EP: Crossing Rivers
Tracks: 6
Standout Songs: Crossing Rivers, A Moment At A Time
Sounds Like: No Use For A Name, MxPx, NOFX, The Ataris etc
