Magnet - The Simple Life Review
Posted by Matt Reno on 09.30.2007
Hey, Norwegian! Go back to Norwegia! On second thought, nah, you can stay.
A ray of light shines amidst the darkness of the Norway music scene. In a country known for producing some of the heaviest and most evil metal performed by extravagantly costumed and menacingly made-up rock warriors, it's surprising to hear an artist like Magnet. That surprise is sure to be a welcome one for those seeking an eclectic blend of laid-back styles created by a talented musician.
Magnet, whose real name is Even Johansen, is a folk-pop version of Trent Reznor, as he composes and produces all the music himself regardless of how many instruments a song features. However, he's been known to remain solo in concert, either using prerecorded loops or creating them live much like Howie Day. Johansen was involved in bands before embarking on a solo career at the start of the millennium. Since then he's contributed songs to the soundtrack of the Dreamfall video game as well as a Bob Dylan cover to the Mr. & Mrs. Smith soundtrack.
The Simple Life marks Magnet's fourth full length studio album. It debuted at the top of the Norwegian charts this past March. It's recently been given a much bigger test with an American release. I think Magnet has a good chance at garnering more American fans due to his palatable singer-songwriter style, which at times is reminiscent of Beck.
The album opens with "The Gospel Song," which immediately sets a feel good tone with handclaps keeping a steady beat and a harmonica bolstering the vibe already set by the guitar and cool vocals. "Lonely No More" will get your head nodding with its strong drum beat and a big chorus with love-searching lyrics: "I'll walk a mile on burning coal to find somebody like you."
The feel good vibe continues with a cover of Bob Marley's "She's Gone," which has a heartbreak theme totally contradictory of its fun reggae sound. "A Little Happier," on the other hand, has more upbeat lyrics ("With her hand in mine I'm fine / I'm just a little happier") but a more downbeat tone thanks to its country twang. Looking for some gettin'-it-on music? Look no further than "Navigator" on which Magnet smoothly proclaims "it's so hard to say no to a woman like you" against a jazzy yet commanding background. More fun jazziness comes a couple tracks later in the form of "Slice of Heaven."
While The Simple Life has several standout tracks, there is little to really grab listeners and keep them coming back. Sure, the entire album is good enough for repeat listens, but at least one truly memorable song would help. That's especially true toward the end as the album's tempo slows, creating a winding down feeling.
Overall, The Simple Life is an enjoyable album from a very talented artist. I doubt any of these songs will be enough to capture mass appeal in the States, but those willing to check out this album or Magnet's live shows are sure to embrace this eclectic singer-songwriter. If you're in need of some chillin' out, you'd do well to let yourself be drawn to Magnet.
The 411: Magnet is a very talented artist who skillfully mixes together various styles - folk, pop, reggae, country - into a wholly enjoyable album. At least one truly memorable tune standing above the rest would help in his effort to break through outside of Norway, but I think this album may be enough to build his fanbase for now. Very good album to set a laid-back atmosphere.
