Review Summary:
Ultimately, Magnetic Force is a solid release. Fans of Dream Theater, Mastodon, and Porcupine Tree will probably find something they like on this release.
The Johnny Engstrom band returns with its third release, Magnetic Force, available through Wishing Well Entertainment. The Swedish progressive metal band, consisting of Johnny Engstrom on guitar and vocals, Galle Johansson on drums and Niklas Höberg on bass, has created a concept album that revolves around paranormal and extraterrestrial themes.
The album opens with a long intro – “Oblivion: Part 1” is an unsettling soundtrack where our protagonist drives a car out into the wilderness, then runs out into the void. He reaches what can only be described as an extraterrestrial event, similar to what one might expect to find in an X-Files episode. With the intro out of the way, the music starts with a cool odd-timed riff reminiscent of Meshuggah, but not quite as heavy. Engstrom’s vocals are crisp and clear, with a wide vibrato that gives them quite the spooky effect.
As the album progresses the band’s love of odd timed riffs becomes quite apparent. Most songs groove heavy, and contain the many twists and turns that progressive rock fans have come to expect from the genre. The production of the record is good, but not quite on the level of some of today’s larger bands (Dream Theater, Porcupine Tree).
“Magnetic Forces” is a blistering scorcher with a monster Mastodon inspired opening riff. The verses lack the compelling nature of the opening riff, which bog down the song, but fortunately, the opening riff makes its appearance in several places through out to keep the momentum high.
While there are plenty of heavy moments on the record, there are also a few calm songs as well. “Endlessly,” “River Oaks,” and “Paradise” are epic mid-paced tunes full of melody. Those listeners who seek diversity in a release, will be pleased with this effort. Those who want a record full of technical brutality through out will only be partially satisfied.
Ultimately, Magnetic Force is a solid release. The songwriting is not bad, and the band adds plenty of dynamics and variety to every tune. The musicianship is good, but not mind-blowing. Fans of Dream Theater, Mastodon, and Porcupine Tree will probably find something they like on this release.
