It has gained popularity amongst fans and critics for its musical complexity, with Allmusic citing it as a return to form "...single-handedly eclipsing the previous two and a half albums, while simultaneously recapturing the dark majesty and crushing authority of early Machine Head triumphs..."[1] Lyrically, it is centered around the structure of society (the word "Imperium" originating from the hierarchical philosophies of ancient Rome), and the narrator's attempts to disassociate himself with it. It could also be interpreted as voicing disregard for such music industries as MTV and other apparently commercially centered musical organizations.
The music video for "Imperium" was directed by Mike Sloat, who would also later direct the videos for "Days Turn Blue to Gray", "Aesthetics of Hate", "Now I Lay Thee Down" and "Halo", and features the band performing in various exotic locations including a fiery, red abyss, perhaps symbolizing hell. The video found substantial airplay on Headbangers Ball upon its release.
