The Constant Lover

Album Review

Magneta Lane couldn't be more convincing on their debut EP, The Constant Lover. The trio's six-song set glosses over classic '60s girl group pop and grabs ahold of that punk rock swagger made famous by the likes of Debbie Harry, Chrissie Hynde, and Cherie Currie. Frontwoman/guitarist Lexi Valentine is a vocal temptress with her dark, sultry delivery. Drummer Nadia King and bass player French add to Magneta Lane's brassy presentation; however, the Canadian indie rockers make it known that they're more than just girls playing rock music in the garage. Uncut's Jon Drew produces, mixes, and engineers The Constant Lover, and finds the perfect balance between being innocent and provocative. The EP isn't excessively enthusiastic or overly calculated; its concentration is evenly spread out in order to spotlight Magneta Lane's strength as a band. Between Valentine's ballsy impression and metallic-sounding guitars, King and French's streamlined accompaniment, and the cleverness of the songs themselves, The Constant Lover is an impressive debut. From the fuzzed-out romp of "Medusa" to the fire and swagger of "Mare of the Night," Magneta Lane are pure, raw rock & roll. Although they're a touch cheeky, don't mistake confidence for arrogance. The Constant Lover is rooted in only the classic moments of early rock & roll, yet Magneta Lane polish things up for an inventive and playful set of songs.