On hiatus for three years, Monster Magnet are back with their blues-tinged, psychedelic rock reclamation 4-Way Diablo (SPV). Combining elements that are similar in scope to Dopes To Infinity with its big hooks and memorable/singable choruses; this is not a recording that is going to redefine them as much as sustain them. Listening to the songs "Cyclone" and "A Thousand Stars" really brings the best elements of their unapologetic "retro" vibe with an echoic (especially, "Cyclone") driven atmosphere and gritty lyrics to help keep things slightly grounded. The latter has a more serious feel to it overall and that-- along with the fat drum sound-- helps it be a stand out, at least to these ears. "Wall of Fire" brings fuzzy guitars, killer lyrics, and distorted vocals to an up-tempo/ steady groove that build nicely to a very shoutable chorus; something not too out of place in the Buckcherry catalog. In addition, you just have to love anybody who opens a song with a lyrical refrain, "I have a cock made out of platinum!" Very cool and fits nicely with the kinda out of control feel of the song. Interestingly, when I first heard "You're Alive" I really believed they nicked the chorus from "Devil Inside" by INXS, but all things aside, it brings a full-on optimistic, sex infused, shout-out to those who enjoy the slightly hazy feel of a party in full swing. One surprise was the instrumental "Freeze and Pixilate" with its elongated instrumental motifs that have an "almost" eastern feel to them. Although quite simple, it really helps break things up and it serves to be another one of the best tracks on the disc. Over the course of the 13 songs (track #6 is a Rolling Stones cover) it started to feel a little long; I would like to have heard them take a few more chances in their sound, but make no mistake, there is an undeniable charm to the recording that extends from stem to stern. This one certainly will do no harm to their legacy.
Track Listing
1. 4 Way Diablo
2. Wall of Fire
3. You're Alive
4. Blow Your Mind
5. Cyclone
6. 2000 Lightyears From Home
7. No Vacation
8. I'm Calling You
9. Solid Gold
10. Freeze and Pixelate
11. A Thousand Stars
12. Slap In the Face
13. Little Bag of Gloom
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