Monster Magnet

Editorial

Monster Magnet's frontman, Dave Wyndorf, had a well-publicised drug overdose in 2006. It came on the eve of the band's European tour and 14 years since they released their debut album. His addiction to prescription drugs and subsequent overdose proved the inspiration for the group's latest record, 4-Way Diablo; it also revived the band's fortunes. With over 15 years of touring and records under their belt, Monster Magnet's roller-coaster ride through the music industry was drawing to a close by the middle of this decade. It may have been extreme (and unintended), but the near-death experience revitalised the group. As All Music Guide wrote, "4-Way Diablo signals a strong return to form for a band that came very close to being cut short".

Introspective lyrics aside, the latest album also reveals another evolution in the group's sound. While Monster Magnet started out as a stoner rock group (releasing songs like I'm Stoned, What Ya Gonna Do About It?), they've embraced a more straight-up rock sound in recent years. Whatever you want to call it, their rediscovered critical success has been matched by commercial success and Monster Magnet are enjoying the Indian summer of their career.
Mikolai, July 2009