What makes Imaginary Numbers by The Maine notable?

The EP received positive reviews for its mature songwriting and sonic evolution, showcasing The Maine's growth as artists. It helped solidify their place within the alternative rock scene during a period when many bands were shifting towards more experimental sounds. Released in December 2013, 'Imaginary Numbers' is The Maine's fourth studio EP, following their album 'Forever Halloween.' At this point in their career, the band was honing their sound and establishing a stronger lyrical identity, moving away from their earlier pop-punk roots into more introspective territory.

Who is Imaginary Numbers for?

Imaginary Numbers works well if you're into reflective moments of introspection, gradual build to emotional release and short bursts of melodic clarity.

How many songs are on Imaginary Numbers?

Imaginary Numbers has 5 tracks, running approximately 22 minutes.

Imaginary Numbers

The Maine · 2013

22 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

A reflective blend of melancholy melodies and poignant lyrics that explore themes of love and loss.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Raining in Paris — This opening track sets the tone with its atmospheric instrumentation and evocative lyrics about longing, reflecting the overall emotional landscape of the EP.
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Perfectly Out of Key — The song features a captivating chorus that contrasts vulnerability with an upbeat tempo, illustrating the band's ability to merge introspection with accessible melodies.
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Lovely Sad — Closing out the EP, this track delves deeply into themes of heartache and acceptance, showcasing the band's lyrical depth and emotional resonance.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

55 /100

Foothills

Higher than 45% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases solid songwriting and emotional depth, with effective pacing and thematic cohesion.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the last two slow down significantly, creating a noticeable shift in energy.
Each song incorporates layered guitar melodies that complement the reflective lyrics, enhancing the emotional weight of the themes.
The EP closes with a track that features a gradual fade-out, leaving a lingering sense of melancholy.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

reflective moments of introspection
gradual build to emotional release
short bursts of melodic clarity
for quiet evenings

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party tracks
prefer standalone singles format

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Showcases mature songwriting and sonic evolution, marking a high point in their artistic growth.
Career context: Released in December 2013, 'Imaginary Numbers' is The Maine's fourth studio EP, following their album 'Forever Halloween.' At this point in their career, the band was honing their sound and establishing a stronger lyrical identity, moving away from their earlier pop-punk roots into more introspective territory.
Stylistic neighbors: All Time Low· Mayday Parade· The Summer Set