CD Review
Publisher: Mushroom
Thu, 1 January 1970
by: Madame Hooplah
Magnet is Even Johansen, a Norwegian artist based in Scotland. In addition to recording his debut album he has remixed tracks for The Belles, Franz Ferdinand, Ralph Myerz and The Jack Herren Band.
“On Your Side” opens with a song about euthanasia, which might lead one to expect it to be a fairly bleak affair, though actually that is not quite the case. It does have mournful, detached moments, but Even’s voice is full of genuine charm; the man can burst into a rendition of “zippety-do-dah” during a live set and deliver it like a lullaby. Though not especially vocally gifted, his delivery is warm and soulful, producing an overall effect which is atmospheric and seductive.
“Overjoyed”opens with gentle hesitant keys supporting Evens’ melancholy lyrics ‘I’m overjoyed…and ready for the fall…’ as the violin and cello build into a clear but restrained crescendo and then spiral down giving the impression of surrender.
The theme of surrender is carried on into the next track ‘I’ll come along’ and something in the strings here is reminiscent of Massive Attacks ‘unfinished sympathy’ although again showing a degree of restraint that gives it that intimate vibe.
Another highlight is a cover of Bob Dylan’s “Lay Lady Lay”- which I enjoy despite the fact that I personally dislike Dylan songs (blasphemy- Sammy). According to magnets’ website, he also dislikes Dylan songs in general. This might explain his approach to the cover version, which is not inhibited by reverence for the almighty Bob. It is slightly cheeky and good-natured, with the help of sultry guest vocals by Gemma Hayes. It doesn’t come across as a duet at all however; there’s no sense of connection between the two singers, which lets it down somewhat.
Magnet’s use of electronics can at times be a little overbearing. They tend to detract from the intimacy of the vocals and lyrics. Each song sounds like it has been lovingly tweaked and polished which results in a layered textured quality, yet leaves things slightly lacking in spontaneity. More changes in pace along the lines of Lay Lady Lay would have made it fresher, as it sinks into a slight stupor toward the end (or was that just me?).
“On Your Side” is an album that deserves to be given the time it takes to grow on you. Play it while you’re having a bath, or late at night with good company.
by: Madame Hooplah
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