The 7-track release turns internal monologues into generation-defining anthems
Filipino indie rock quartet, We Are Imaginary, commemorates their fifteenth anniversary as a band with the release of their fourth studio EP, “Swan Songs for Drifters” available on April 28 via floppydisks.
Lead vocalist/guitarist Ahmad Tanji explains that the songs on the EP reflect the long periods of contemplation and introspection from 2018 to 2020—a defining era in his personal life, coinciding with the world’s gradual descent into chaos due to the uncertainties of the pandemic.
“It brought about existential questions about why we are doing this,” Tanji shares. “After celebrating our 14th year as a band, I had a moment where I thought this is it; we’re done. But that moment also made me realize that everyone is lost—a drifter searching for the next destination.”
Despite the challenges of finding inspiration and regaining momentum, Tanji decided to reunite the band during the peak of the “new normal.” They recorded two new tracks with the original lineup of five members, closing that chapter of his life with a fresh perspective and newfound wisdom. The outcome is a 7-track EP that serves more as a vibe than a conventional album, taking listeners on a vibrant and redemptive journey.
In “Swan Songs for Drifters,” We Are Imaginary transforms internal monologues into anthems that resonate with the current generation. The band exhibits a penchant for drama and audacity when necessary, while also exploring introspective realms that embrace vulnerability.
The EP features the legacy-shaping track “Dekada,” originally released in 2018, as well as the contemplative tune “Kawalan,” which was initially considered for inclusion in their third album, “Death to Romanticism.” Other tracks include “Durden,” a melodic alt-rock gem with expansive choruses and indie-pop breakdowns, and “Swan Song,” a tender folk number that encapsulates the yearning for change within the album.
Tanji adds, “This time, we made a conscious effort to create a more cohesive vibe compared to our previous releases, which featured a mix of genres. The songs are personal conversations with myself, adorned with catchy choruses and reverb-soaked production.”
All the songs on “Swan Songs for Drifters” were written by Ahmad Tanji, with the exception of “Shimmer,” which was co-written by his brother, Khalid Tanji. The EP was produced, mixed, and mastered by RJ Mabilin of Redverb Studio.
Swan Songs for Drifters track list:
1. Dekada
2. Motion Sickness
3. Do You Mind?
4. Shimmer (to Your Touch)
5. Durden
6. Kawalan
7. Swan Song
Listen to We Are Imaginary’s Swan Songs for Drifters here.
