After the introspection of 2022’s deep double album *Mercury*, Imagine Dragons bring the energy back with their lively seventh set, *Loom*. Produced by the band and Swedish collaborators Mattman & Robin, this concise and energetic collection showcases everything that has made Imagine Dragons a global favorite over the past decade: irresistibly catchy songs that defy genre conventions in favor of dynamic pop/rock anthems. Their signature blend of hard-hitting percussion and genre-mixing is enhanced with more pop flair and hip-hop bounce, evident in tracks like “Wake Up,” which channels an Eminem vibe in the best way; the funky disco-pop dance anthem “Nice to Meet You”; and the Latin-tinged “Take Me to the Beach.”
The ominous “Eyes Closed,” with or without the J Balvin feature, epitomizes classic Imagine Dragons, combining wobbly dubstep beats, gang shouts, and Dan Reynolds’ distinctive delivery. “Gods Don’t Pray” rides a sinister alterna-dub groove, while “Kid” continues with a Gorillaz-like track that could be straight from Demon Days.
Among the slower moments, “In Your Corner” provides a mid-album respite with its determined beat and Linkin Park-esque synths, while the moving “Don’t Forget Me” features twinkling production and a touchingly earnest performance from Reynolds.
While Mercury kept their hit streak alive and introduced a welcome vulnerability, longtime fans of Imagine Dragons’ empowering anthems will rejoice in this pseudo-“return to form.” *Loom* stands as one of their most satisfying and immediate albums to date.
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