JOIN USEarly in their careers, the Goo Goo Dolls had a distinct alternative sound. Later, they shifted to a more pop-rock genre, making them more popular.
They are best known for their 1998 hit song Iris, apart from Slide and Black Balloon. And now, Magnetic is their tenth studio album. They are not the same they were 25 years ago, and have mellowed down like Bon Jovi. But then they have to appeal to an entirely new generation.
Rebel Beat kicks things off spiritedly with John Rzeznik belting, “Hey you, look around!/can you hear that noise/it’s a rebel sound/we got nowhere else to go.” When the World Breaks Your Heart has a driving groove but plebian lyrics, Slow It Down has a nice folksy nature, but lacks the element of excitement. Caught in The Storm has a soaring chorus and good production sound, but poor lyrics.
Come to Me is an acoustic track and one of the better songs in the album.
Bringing on the Light has bassist Robby Takac singing with his brazen voice,
giving it a more rock feel. It is a contrast to Rzeznik’s polished voice. More of You has dub-step elements and over-simplified electronica with Rzeznik experimenting with the latest music trend.
Bullet-proof Angel is a beautifully orchestrated track, but at times appears to be contrived. Last Hot Night is meant to be an uplifting track, with reference to the current economic state of America, and goading people not to lose the American dream. Happiest of Days is as unimpressive-American as they come. Keep the Car Running doesn’t offer new
direction for a fitting finale and concludes the album rather tamely. On the whole, Goo Goo Dolls are good only in certain tracks and others appear to be just fillers.