Songs: Ohia is the one-man band of the prolific American singer / songwriter Jason Molina. Because of his somewhat high-pitched voice and his sad, often quiet songs, he was initially often compared to Will Oldham (Palace Songs, Palace Brothers, Bonnie 'Prince' Billy). After hearing The Magnolia Electric Co (already his eighth studio album in six years), that comparison can be thrown away. This has
… become a real 'band album' with long, nice rocking up-tempo songs. As if we are listening to a successful cross between the young Bob Dylan and Neil Young. Highlights are the opening track Farewell Transmission, the vicious John Henry Split My Heart and the beautiful Peoria Lunch Box Blues, a duet with the unknown singer Scout Niblett. Just like its predecessor Didn't It Rain (2002), the album was produced by Steve Albini, proving once again that this top producer often knows how to get the best out of artists. The Magnolia Electric Co is an absolute masterpiece and by far the best CD Songs: Ohia has made to date. (MvP)more
