VZ Magazine

.

Magnolia Electric Co.'s self-titled album fronted by Jason Molina was released by Secretly Canadian in early 2003 and was the turning point from Molina's former band, Songs: Ohia, which he formed in 1996. Magnolia has an uncanny similarity to Neil Young with a dash of Bonnie Prince Billy. By no means though is Molina a replica or someone to be duplicated.

.

"Farewell Transmission" starts out this alt-country/psychedelic rock eight track LP and is quite possibly one of the most addictive songs ever recorded. Molina's dark lyrical witticism is matched with his perfect harmonies throughout this improvised track and for that matter, the rest of the album. Molina picks up the pace with the second track. "I've Been Riding With The Ghost" is about trying to make a change and is quite possibly about Molina's ongoing battle with drug addiction. Other notable tracks on this album are "Old Black Hen," a taste of real country with guest vocals by Scout Niblett; "John Henry Split My Heart," matches the intensity of "I've Been Riding With The Ghost" and ends with the same chilling "long dark blues" chorus as heard in "Farewell Transmission". "Hold On Magnolia" is the closing track and appropriately placed. The other three tracks, "Just Be Simple," "Almost Was Good Enough," and "Peoria Lunch box Blues" are the less notable tracks but are in no way weak. This album is the perfect companion for solo listening whether it be a road trip or hanging out in the house.

.

Molina has been on a bit of a hiatus as of 2009 due to medical issues. His family and friends started the Jason Molina Medical Fund to try to help with his outstanding medical bills. Graveface records has started a campaign on Kickstarter ending January 11 focusing on Will Schaff (the artist of the cover) and Jason Molina. You can donate from $1-2000 receiving various tidings in return but if you Spend $60 you will be given a limited edition 60 page art book and a 10" color vinyl of unreleased songs from Molina. Ten percent of the proceeds from this campaign will go to Molina's fund. Hopefully, through this funding Molina will come back from this break and grace us with another great album.