One of the most successful American bands of all time that unfortunately doesn’t have the same following in Europe (let alone Greece) is Goo Goo Dolls. With a 25-year career and 10 studio albums under its belt, John Rzeznik and Co. have laid down the foundations of a core fan base and have influenced numerous bands on their way…including non other than Bon Jovi (during the Have A Nice Day period) when Jon was expressing his admiration for Goo Goo Dolls.
Let me set the record straight right from the very start. “Magnetic” is not by any means a new “A Boy Named Goo” or “Dizzy Up The Girl”…it’s not even “Gutterflower”. But how could it really be? Nevertheless is a pure, classic Goo Goo Dolls record with all the trademark elements in there. The most striking one must be the overall optimistic attitude and the positive look on life throughout the songs. Maybe, the fact that Rzeznik got married recently and Takac expected his first son during the recordings played a significant role. The compositions are up tempo and unashamedly radio friendly with the ballads giving way to the more up (rebel) beat songs.
The first sensational single “Rebel Beat” portrays wonderfully the atmosphere of “Magnetic” while “Caught In The Storm”…caught us by pleasant surprise due to the excellent performance and production (by John Shanks).
All in all, “Magnetic” will surely magnetize all the fans of US pop rock sound. It’s never too late to get to know Goo Goo Dolls!
Highlight: The band should definitely think of reproducing on clothing the excellent, psychedelic album sleeve.
