Imaginary Jack (band)

Imaginary Jack is an American band that was formed in Minneapolis by singer-songwriter Joe Hines in 2007. He started performing solo under the stage name "A Boy in the Woods" while living in Menomonie, Wisconsin, in 2006. As "A Boy in the Woods", he performed in New York, Minneapolis/Saint Paul, Menomonie and a radio performance in Montreal. He released one solo album before moving to Minnesota in 2007 to form a band with guitarist/pianist Dana Harper, naming it "Imaginary Jack" after the imaginary friend that Hines had as a child.

Between 2007 and 2012 Imaginary Jack performed frequently in the bourgeoning Minneapolis indie-rock scene in venues such as the 7th Street Entry, Cause, and 400 Bar with such acts as Howler, Nice Purse, Willie Wisely, and Bitterroot Fires. They were a regular fixture at venues such as The Fine Line and The Acadia Cafe, where they founded a monthly residency called the "Imaginary Music Showcase" for a brief period, which showcased artists that were undiscovered at the time. During this initial period, Imaginary Jack released much of their work on demos and EP's, which were usually given out for free at their shows. A record deal with Kid DAKOTA front-man Darren Jackson was reported to be underway during 2010, but midway through recording, the contract fell apart as Darren Jackson made a decision to move from Minnesota to South Dakota for a position teaching music.

In 2013, Joe Hines moved from Minneapolis, Minnesota to Chicago, Illinois. Having parted ways with the original members, Joe Hines paired with Chicago-based drummer Alex Santilli for release and promotion of the upcoming 2014 EP entitled "Traphouse". The album is inspired by what Hines encountered during his experience with what he calls "all the worst people from all the worst places". The EP is set for release sometime in 2014.

Joe Hines also worked in the sound department on independent film productions.

Band Members

Joe Hines: Vocals, Guitar (2007–present)
Alex Santilli: Drums (2014–present)
Tyler Niemi: Bass Guitar (2014–present)

Former Band Members

Dana Harper: Piano, Lead Guitar, Banjo, Mandolin (2007–2011)
Mark N Kartarik: Bass (2007–2013)
Eric Whalen: Drums (2010–2013)
Kevin Rieschl: Drums (2009)
Ian Ahola: Drums (2007–2009)

Quotations

(Joe Hines') compositions possess a maturity I've rarely seen in such a young songwriter. Dark, but beautiful stories, sung with a strong, emotionally filled voice. - Josie-Anne Huard, Univers Folk, CHOQ FM (Montreal, Quebec)''
(Joe Hines') lyrics find an intelligent way to work deep philosophical concepts into contemporary indie pop. Most of Imaginary Jack's melancholy tones are a perfect match for the subject matter, but the instant a jovial melody is introduced, a bitingly sarcastic social commentary will emerge. Imaginary Jack is one of the most unique independent bands around... - Pat Dougherty, Radio Noir Podcast with Imaginary Jack