The Magnolia Electric Co.

The Magnolia Electric Co. is just one of those albums that click once you start listening to it and don't stop clicking on subsequent listens.

The album is sprawling with amazing melodies that don't entirely go into the country but keep that semblance of alt-rock in it (hence why the first genre tag is alt-country), which is what I like about this album and Jason's catalog in general. Another thing I like about them is the songwriting. God! Reading through them you'd think this is someone having a sad pretentious wank, but listening to the lyrics being accompanied by the music and the vocal delivery makes you feel sad, and destroyed, but also somewhat optimistic and at peace with what you are and what your life is.

Literally, any song on here can be considered a high moment of the album, and I wouldn't look down upon you if you chose any of the songs as your favorite, but for me personally, the highest points on this album are Farewell Transmission, Just Be Simple, Almost Was Good Enough and Hold On Magnolia. They just simply hit that part of the heart that most songs can't even think of hitting.

A true testament to Jason's abilities, and a landmark of music and country.

Also, Steve Albini produced this album, which just gives another reason why he's one of the greatest music producers out there.

Pretty good alt country! Dips a little into the twang that I personally do not like, but overall it is a good time. This belongs on the list over Buck Owens, that's for sure.

Damn this is awesome. I've heard the names before but never given them a shot and now I'm kicking myself. Alt country is so good, I'm glad I've finally figured out that not all country is garbage about trucks and beer.

This is one of those albums that I feel like I'd need to listen to multiple times and really hone in to get if it's truly awesome. As is I enjoyed it but it didn't blow me away musically.

Ihan taitavasti tehtyä amerikanmusiikkia, mutta liian pitkä.

The gold standard of country, alt country, and neighboring genres. I say that despite liking only about four of the eight original tracks—when the thing's hot, it's really hot

Never stop like boring white man shit, male internet!

I'm a little torn on this one. I think it's pretty good, and would be a solid 4 if it wasn't for The Old Black Hen. I think I'll leave it as 4, but a little bit reluctantly.

Really solid, I enjoyed the extended version with bonus tracks and demos too. Not quite as good as The Lioness, which I had a few weeks ago, but still a cracking voice and beautiful songs, and still easily five stars for me. Thanks for the pointer!

This is the second Songs: Ohia album I've had on the post - list (the first being The Lioness). This is the better of the two. Both were good, but this one in particular was fantastic! Sound was better, more polished.

The only song I didn't like on the album wasn't because of anything Jason Molina did. It was Scout Niblett's voice in Peoria Lunch Box Blues. It was God awful. The rest of the album was stellar!

Favorite songs: Farewell Transmission, The Old Black Hen, I've Been Riding With the Ghost, Just Be Simple, Hold on Magnolia

Least favorite songs: Peoria Lunch Box Blues

5/5