Album Notes

Imaginary Johnny's debut full-length takes the acclaimed sound of his 2003 EP, "The Upside of the Downside", to new heights. Lush orchestration emboldens intimate lyricism. A human simplicity emerges from densely-layered electronics. It wouldn't be a stretch to say that Imaginary Johnny's first-person storytelling is a play-fort built amid a thicket of sampled beats. Although it would be absurd.


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Praise for "Painting Over the Dirt":

"In 'Work Related', IJ showcases his venerable story-telling talents with the heartbreaking tale of a man forced into exile after one incident. 'Work Related' brings a nouveau element to the outlaw's tale, as this post-NAFTA drama unfolds on top of a lo-fi backbeat." [TRAMPOLINEHOUSE.COM]


Praise for "The Upside of the Downside":

"If the debut from Imaginary Johnny is any indication of what's to come, Belle and Sebastian best be watching its back. Muffled broadcasts and tweaked-out squiggles peg lyrics about instant coffee, tropical rain storms and purple-clad prostitutes. Wolferman's summery ballads flutter past like sweet visions of rose colored icing on a three-tier wedding cake ... the commentary on love, loss, and New Orleans never grows tiresome." [MAGNET]

“While there are other singer-songwriters who enhance their storytelling with electronics, Imaginary Johnny envelopes acoustics, burbles and ideal pop vocals into a gentle, less-handled whole.... Imaginary Johnny is either arriving at a new place or painting a picture of where he’s been, sometimes fitful and other times content. 'The Upside of the Downside', with its warm fills and club-affectionate beats, is a songwriter with equal regard for electronics and
illumination.” [INDIEWORKSHOP.COM]

“Whether through words or sounds, it never feels artificial and never overriding. This, in a sense, is indie-pop’s equivalent to Willie Nelson’s 'Red Headed Stranger.' It really is that good.” [BROWNSVILLE HERALD]