It's Immaterial Members, Gear & Sound

It's Immaterial is a synthpop duo hailing from Liverpool, England, known for their understated yet witty musical style that emerged in the early 1980s. The group was formed by John Campbell (vocals, bass) and Jarvis Whitehead (guitar, keyboards), who crafted songs with a uniquely British sensibility, marrying dry humor with atmospheric soundscapes. Their music achieved commercial success with the 1986 hit "Driving Away From Home (Jim’s Tune)" and maintained a cult following with albums like Life's Hard And Then You Die. The band’s lineup has seen various contributors, including Henry Priestman and Paul Barlow, adding layers to their distinctive sound.

Capturing the sound of It's Immaterial involves channeling a melodic, atmospheric vibe with an emphasis on subtle, textural elements rather than overpowering synth leads. The band’s music often features clean, melodic bass lines, with Campbell’s use of the Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI helping to deliver a warm, punchy tone that anchors their tracks. Meanwhile, Whitehead’s contributions on guitar and keyboards create an ethereal backdrop, utilizing ambient reverb and delay effects to craft a sense of space and introspection. To emulate their style, musicians should focus on balancing electronic elements with organic instrumentation, prioritizing clarity and nuance over aggression or complexity.