The new single from Magnolia & Johnson Electric Co. is, indeed, a big beast of a song. ‘The Big Beast‘ is intense and absorbing. In over six minutes of unresolved tension, rolling rhythms and pounding drums from Mark Rice clear the path for distorted, fuzzy guitar and powerful riffs. Between verses, there are extended instrumental periods that are hypnotic, and listeners will lose themselves in the song’s movement. Gritty vocals from Will Johnson burst through with roaring energy while sonic layers from Michael Kapinus on keys and Mike “Slo-Mo” Brenner on lap steel add a textured fullness to the sound. This is brilliant songwriting.
Texan songwriter Will Johnson is known for his work in the 400 Unit with Jason Isbell as well as a collaboration with Jason Molina in 2009, and, earlier this year, he released his 10th solo record, “Diamond City”. The remaining members of the acclaimed Magnolia Electric Co. have joined with Johnson to create new material and head out on tour. As well as writing and creating together, they are playing a series of shows in Texas in September as a tribute to Jason Molina. It will be a celebration of the 20th anniversary of a previous 10-show tour in Texas as part of a larger world tour in support of 2005 albums “What Comes After the Blues” and “Trials and Errors”. Also in September, we can expect the release of two-song 7″ record – versions of ‘Wooden Heart’ and ‘Twenty Cycles To The Ground’, both of which featured on 2009’s Molina & Johnson album. Look out for the new songs. In the meantime, enjoy this and check out “Diamond City” – great stuff.
