Customer Reviews

Magnetic

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
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1 star:		(1)

 

 

These guys will probably only make a small splash here in the U.S. because their sound is just too niche to make it into wide play, but they are well worth checking out. In general they spin a kind of low-key electronic/dance with varying layers of like strings and digital threads thrown in. They are reminiscent of Massive Attack and when they get really moody of Portishead (two groups often associated stylistically though not really that similar). Maybe the emotional level of Morphine with a femal lead and no horns is more appropriate then Portishead. They are not above alittle melodic swing influence in a coupla tracks which livens up the mix. Vocally the lead singer (sorry I'm not much with names of musicians) has an iconic kind of sound like Biork or the lead from the Squirl Nut Zippers. She may not use the range of some singers, but lends presence and richness to her vocals. April 31 may be her best number and interestingly enough is the only one in her native russian. Only critisism in my view is that the songs tend to blend into themselves after awhile, but I find this to be the case with most club inspired music. Its not like trance where you could splice any song from any point and not really notice the changeover, but that in O.C.'s music they operate with many layers of texture cut across the same easy range of tempo, especially since the vocals never really cut loose. Really a cool listen overall and perfect if you are in the mood for somthing kind of casual that maintains a pulsing energy.

If you like Cocteau Twins, Enya, and that type of music then you'll like Magnetic. They're good musicians. I heard these guys on NPR and ran out and bought the CD. If you're looking for something a bit more upbeat but in the same vein, check out Castle of Crime by Lakuna. Awesome drum rhythms.

First heard a brief review on PBS radio. Most interesting combination of Electronica, Jazz, Hip Hop, blues, rock, Martin Denny, Lounge, Bombay, and a big sound from a small group...While most tunes seem to be an extension of a fundamental theme, they will keep your fingers tapping from album start to album finish. The occasional muted trumpet, soft violin and vibes add a hint of sophistication not usually heard in Club groups. If you don't have shakey leg syndrome, you will after this CD.
Bob