Tom Lynch

I was never really big on Songs: Ohia. Jason Molina's songwriting appeals to me, but I can never quite fully grasp it. But the newest Magnolia Electric Co. record, titled "What Comes After the Blues" (Secretly Canadian), is a solid outing by a good songwriter, a guy who always knows what he is doing. The Neil Youngish sound comes off great with Steve Albini's hands in the mix, a certain live sound that isn't captured on most records. It lends an authenticity--not that Molina lacks it in any way--that blends the band's roadside folk with a tougher edge that's difficult to finger, but easy to appreciate.

Magnolia Electric Co. plays two shows, April 9 at Schubas, 3159 North Southport, (773)525-2508.

(2005-04-05)

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