Truth be told M.A.G.S. has found himself on several of our playlists since his self-titled sophomore was released on Admirable Traits Records, we hold our hands up as this review is long overdue.
M.A.G.S is the name of the project by multi-instrumentalist Elliott Douglas. The Buffalo-based musician shows a stupendous knack for making scruffy indie guitar-led music sound like instant pop treasures. there’s a lot to take in on the album with Douglas unafraid to let loose on tracks such as the perky “Mexico“, our first introduction to his work, which touches upon topics of growing up and taking on responsibilities and sounds a little like early Death Cab For Cutie duelling with Japandroids.
Elsewhere “Demon” is a gritty anthem that reminds me a lot of Kings Of Leon before they started trying to be U2. It is rambunctious and purposefully rough around the edges but all the more endearing for it. The last track that is worth highlighting is the single “Drugs” as it offers a change of pace and showcases a different aspect of M.A.G.S. sound. Steeped in surf guitars and harmonies that would make Brian Wilson proud, the track sounds like a long lost gem from yesteryear with the lyrics remaining topical.
With a fresh single on the horizon you might start noticing his music pop up in more and more of your favourite TV series.
The self-titled album “M.A.G.S.” is out now!
TRACKS:
