The first time I heard this, I was struck by how, well, how happy it sounded. H.K. Kahng, who happens to be half of the Friend, is probably better known for his stuff with Buddha on the Moon, a similar duo who are definitely NOT known for sounding cheery. With the A-side, "Marigold," though, the Imaginary Friend toss out a bright little love song so shiny you can HEAR the smiles on their faces. The tune features absolutely beautiful vocals by Nancy (aka the other half of the duo), and to me sounds more akin to '80s-ish pop than anything else I can think of. "Hear From You," the B-side, is a Magick Heads cover, and it's more somber & electric but still maintains the sound, this time coming closer to the Magnetic Fields. At any rate, both sides are good, and not necessarily what you'd expect from somebody who's written so many melancholy love songs. Nice to see these two kids are finally happy -- 'cause I'm telling you, if this isn't the sound of two people in love, I need my head checked. (JH)
(Drive-In Records -- P.O. Box 888211, Grand Rapids, MI. 49588; drivein01@aol.com; http://members.aol.com/quid001/drivein.htm)