Full Review: Magnolia Sons – Jails Everywhere
When you face a long day having nothing exciting to look forward to, the day can be a burden. Until the moment that you’re walking down the street and turn the corner just in time to see that girl, that marvelous beauty, that one person who makes everyone else disappear. After you’ve seen them, even the worst day becomes a sunny stroll through the park. In the same way when I hit play on Magnolia Sons first song, BAM! I couldn’t help but become consumed and fall in love.
The title track “Jails Everywhere” opens the record, and it’s not so much the beginning piano part as much as it is the moment William Ferguson’s voice promptly starts with “There goes the neighborhood…” that you know this is going to be a good journey. The song is definitely the strongest and one which stands out but I don’t think it’s overbearingly strong, in that the other songs don’t get a chance to be heard and remembered.
“Give Up The Ghost” is a more drawn out, emotionally provoking track which has the ability to force you into daydreaming with it’s chord structure and melodies. “New Town” takes the refreshing fast approach which works wonderfully. “Holiday Review” on the other hand slows things down and is a bit more steadfast and monotone which also works.
Style wise the band is definitely, and clearly a rock band but they do seem to have a hint of folk mixed into most of the tracks. Even though the music is exceptional, William’s vocals are the band’s main draw, probably because he has a power voice which cuts right to the listener and demands your attention. A voice that is on par with any mainstream band including Goo Goo Dolls or Counting Crows.
I honestly can’t get over how wonderful this album is, both in lyrical and musical quality. ‘Jails Everywhere’ truly is a hidden gem that will be found sooner or later for the simple reason that gems this big don’t stay hidden.
Tags: jails everywhere, magnolia sons, music
September 3rd, 2008 at 8:04 am
Jails Everywhere is definitely a song to be reckoned with! Listening to the rest of their stuff. Thanks for the tip!
September 10th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
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October 19th, 2008 at 9:42 pm
I love this group. Jails Everywhere is a wonderful song, but Holiday Review is my personal favorite on this album. I cant help but hit the repeat button everytime.