Imaginary Cities

If Imaginary Cities play all of their shows like they did last night, they will be well equipped to support the Pixies across North America this spring. Their CMW show at Lee's Palace confirmed they have been hard at work since their last time in Toronto, especially singer Marti Sarbit, who seemed more confident than ever dipping a toe into soul territory. She spoke little other than to thank the audience, but with the help of bandmate Rusty Matyas, there were some truly sweet moments. The sentimental piano on "Cherry Blossom Tree" and the lyrical sincerity on "Marry the Sea" are just two reasons why a band that's grown so much in so short a time won't be an opening band much longer.