Imaginary Family is the artistic alias of Joanna Isselé, a talented musician born in the scenic French Alps who now calls Ghent, Belgium home. Her debut album, Builders, Believers, made its debut on January 10, and it has already caught the attention of music enthusiasts and critics alike. We have previously shared our admiration for her work on our blog, highlighting notable singles like “Mirage” and “How We Have Changed,” both of which are featured on this album and exemplify her unique approach to music.
Interesting aspects of Joanna’s artistry include her left-handedness paired with her right-handed guitar playing, which adds a distinctive layer to her sound. She describes her music as fragile, minimalist, and captivating, effectively conveying vulnerability while weaving together intricate melodies. Her inspirations are as diverse as they are profound, drawing from fields such as science, poetry, and magical realism, as well as her own life experiences, creating a tapestry of sound that is both personal and universal.
The musical styles on Builders, Believers traverse a wide range, incorporating elements of indie folk, folk rock, dream pop, and alt pop. Each track features a blend of piano, guitar, and string instruments, beautifully complemented by her enchanting vocals, crafting a mesmerizing auditory atmosphere. In fact, Belgian magazine Humo has already heralded this album as one of the best releases of the year, a sentiment I wholeheartedly endorse.
One of the most compelling aspects of Joanna’s work is her ability to shift moods and genres from song to song while maintaining a cohesive sound. I would classify Builders, Believers as a remarkably strong folk album, exhibiting a masterful encapsulation of atmospheric depth throughout. The album flows seamlessly between upbeat tracks that energize the listener and more melancholic pieces that invite introspection and reflection. Each song possesses its own unique character, making it highly likely that even if one doesn’t enjoy the entirety of the album, at least one track will resonate on a personal level.
As we find ourselves in 2025, it is clear that Builders, Believers is shaping up to be one of the standout albums I have encountered this year, and I anticipate it will retain a cherished spot in my music collection for quite some time. The richness of its sound beckons me to revisit it repeatedly, as there are countless nuances waiting to be uncovered within these beautiful tracks. Listening to this album allows me to close my eyes, momentarily escape the external world, and indulge in a tranquil retreat of sound and emotion. Just before drafting this piece, I immersed myself in its melodies once more, and I can already sense the allure pulling me back for another thorough experience.
Written by Filip Zemcik
