animals in denial – Modern Mystery

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Christian Imes, the driving force behind Animals In Denial, delivers a potent blend of industrial rock and electronica with latest single “Coi.”

“Coi” is a track that has been a long time in the making. Initially composed in 2003, it began with electronic sequences created using Acid Pro 4, a tool that allowed Christian to stitch together the core of what would become a powerful and compelling piece.

The track was initially intended as a pitch for one of his earlier bands, but the project was shelved when the band’s singer felt there wasn’t enough room for lyrics. However Christian knew there was something special within the track’s groovy, hard-hitting beats and dark atmosphere, so he tucked it away for years until the timing felt right to revisit it.

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“Coi” channels the spirit of Nine Inch Nails and takes much of its inspiration from albums like The Fragile and Pretty Hate Machine. These influences are clear in the driving, industrial beats which are combined with a massive wall of sound created by searing guitar lines that cut through the electronic undercurrent. Imes explains that he wanted the track to be something that rocked as hard as metal but still had a danceable, rhythmic groove.

The result is a track that balances heaviness and energy, perfect for both head-banging and losing yourself in its hypnotic rhythm.

One of the standout elements of “Coi” is its guitar work. Christian used his Epiphone Les Paul Special 2 to lay down both the rhythm and lead tracks, capturing a raw, gritty sound that perfectly complements the song’s darker vibe. His 85 Gibson Les Paul Studio, which was a cherished birthday gift from his mother, was used to add more depth and richness to the lead lines in the chorus, as well as fatten up the rest of the sound to give a sense of power. The guitar parts came naturally, with many of the recordings being first takes.

While the bass lines were created using a sample pack and a keyboard, they blend in and add a weighty low-end that helps to anchor the frenetic energy of the drums and guitars.

Christian’s attention to detail in production, even when using non-traditional instruments, shines through in every aspect of the song.

Recorded with a Shure SM58 microphone and enhanced using the Nectar plugin and a mic modeler plugin, Imes delivers a raw and emotionally charged performance.

The lyrics reflect his feelings of betrayal, frustration, and emotional turmoil after a toxic relationship. Imes recounts how the relationship, marked by manipulation, dishonesty, and infidelity which left him feeling used and lost. Lines like, “I’m sick on the in, you’re sick on the out,” capture the disconnect between his efforts to heal and his ex-partner’s refusal to confront her own demons. At the time, Christian was navigating challenges related to PTSD and ASD, which added to the complexity of the situation.

“Lyrically, this is another one that was about one of my ex-girlfriends. It’s not nice but she treated me about as bad as you can possibly treat someone. From the hot and cold, to endless lies about stuff you should never lie about. She was my first after school serious relationship and I got really invested, and in retrospect the signs, flags, whatever, were there. I was also seeing doctors and therapists to deal with PTSD and ASD and trying to figure out “me” is why I think I missed some clear signals that we would’ve been better as friends.”

Reflecting on the lyrics today, Imes acknowledges that both he and his ex-partner were dealing with unresolved pain, but at the time of writing “Coi,” he was still deeply hurt. He now sees the relationship from a more mature perspective, recognizing that it was a combination of their struggles that led to its unraveling.

Christian Imes, the brain behind Animals In Denial, is an artist who defies boundaries and challenges the status quo. His music merges elements of alternative rock, industrial, electronic, and even pop. As a neurodivergent artist, Christian shares a unique perspective and experience with Asperger’s syndrome, creating songs that speak to the human existence in profound and innovative ways.

A devoted family man, Christian can often be found jamming with his sons, passing on his love for music and creativity. His ethos can be summed up in his own words: “I just want to live my life surrounded by music.”

As the latest addition to the Animals In Denial discography, “Coi” solidifies Christian’s place as a visionary in the alternative and industrial rock music genres.

“Coi” is now available on all streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.

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The music scene is often fraught with barriers, but artists like Animals in Denial break through these constraints with sheer determination and unwavering passion. In his latest release, “Because Reasons Revisited,” this industrial rock maestro doesn’t just drop a track; he unleashes a torrent of raw energy and rebellion that transcends boundaries and conventions.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand the genesis of “Because Reasons Revisited.” This track serves as the harbinger of a revisited series, a collection of songs that were initially birthed as rough demos. Yet, what truly sets these revisited versions apart is the meticulous craftsmanship that has gone into remixing and remastering, coupled with the utilization of state-of-the-art studio upgrades and AI tools. Animals in Denial, reflecting on the early days of his music-making journey, notes the humble beginnings of his studio setup, where post-production was often relegated to the sidelines due to limited resources. However, “Because Reasons Revisited” emerges as a testament to his evolution as an artist and his unyielding commitment to honing his craft.

But what truly ignites this track is its lyrical inspiration, a testament to the artist’s personal journey within the Industrial goth scene. Animals in Denial’s firsthand experience in this subculture was far from idyllic. Instead, he found himself bombarded by negative energy, pessimistic voices, and unsolicited advice from veteran artists who seemed disillusioned with the very essence of creation. The discouraging refrain that “nobody cares, so why bother” threatened to stifle his creative spirit.

However, “Because Reasons Revisited” boldly defies this sentiment. It encapsulates the essence of an artist who refuses to be silenced, a musical maverick who acknowledges that his path might not lead to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame or a Grammy, but that’s inconsequential. What truly matters is that he created something that is honest, unapologetic, and deeply personal.

With influences that harken back to the glory days of rock, Animals in Denial stands as a torchbearer for the old-school Rock N Roll spirit. Nods to legendary acts like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Smashing Pumpkins, Nine Inch Nails, Depeche Mode, Nirvana, and Cheap Trick are evident in his music. Still, Animals in Denial masterfully blends these inspirations, creating a sound that is distinctly his own while remaining true to the roots of rock.

Yet, beyond the sonic prowess, Animals in Denial’s music embodies a universal language that defies cultural, linguistic, and societal barriers. “Because Reasons Revisited” stands as a clarion call for unity, understanding, and empathy. In a world often marred by division, his art becomes a bridge that connects diverse individuals, fostering a profound sense of shared humanity. He implores his audience not to fear judgment and to embrace their individuality.

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