Magnet, aka Even Johansen (my favorite Norwegian import) has done it again. His third full length album, “The Simple Life” was finally released stateside on Tuesday via iTunes. This beautiful opus packed full of organically lush scapes is another testament to his artistic genius. Responsible for most of the instrumentation and all of the production duties, Even continues down the road where the simplistic beauty of folk collides with the ethereal complexity found in jazz, classical and electronica – all wrapped in the package that is uniquely Magnet.
The opening track, “The Gospel Song” is clearly the strongest of the batch. From the low end boom of the effected kick drum to the catchy melody fingered on the banjo – the song chugs along with melancholy optimism. Magnet is the king of this technique. Combining the minor, organic elements of “love lost” composition with electronic after-thoughts – he takes the listener on a multi-genre ride.
Inventive samples and breath taking string arrangements further compliment this singer/songwriter’s latest excursion. GOTTA HAVE DOWNLOADS: “The Gospel Song”, “You Got Me” & “Lucid”.