Magnum Dopus’ latest single “Scratch & Dent Blonde” pulsates with a dark and bewildering vibe
Tennessee-based Magnum Dopus brings their intoxicating blend of ’80s new wave and psychedelic goth vibes to give you a sound both with rich dark textures and a pulsating post-punk vibe.
The quintet got started in 2017 when Andrew McCarty (vocalist) and George Cole (guitarist) started jamming together, following the breakup of their prior bands. After a handful of singles and EPs, two albums and a change in the lineup, the band is not back with their latest LP, Suburbanova. The lead single off Suburbanova is “Scratch & Dent Blonde,” a dark and compelling piece that will have you nostalgic for ’80s music and all things that are punk and of portent.
With percussive beats that erupts from the start of this fully charged post-punk undertaking, “Scratch & Dent Blonde” leads into a new wave sound right away as McCarty’s ‘80s-inspired vocals pay ode to both the new wave culture and a very gothic sound. There was a lot of melancholy to be found here as McCarty’s vocals conjured a very Smith’s vibe. In fact, I thought McCarty’s delivery sounded a lot like Morrissey’s. The music itself contrasted with the stark vocals, powered by some hard rock guitars and pop-oriented beats. I was enthralled by the rich sounds from the very start.
The reverb-drenched vocals juxtaposed with the bouncy percussive beats made for an impactful delivery. I thought that the music encompassed a gothic and post-punk vibe, without sounding too down and out. There was an energy to “Scratch & Dent Blonde” that felt very gravitating, radiating an infectious energy that felt nearly like pop rock right from the get-go. Filled with both moody textures and a contagious energy, this single shows that there are a lot of shades to Magnum Dopus. The band’s eclectic sound blends a lot of genres and what you get is a truly unique sound worth exploring from start to finish. And hopefully you get to do so with their latest album, Suburbanova. If their single “Scratch & Dent Blonde” is any real indicator, Suburbanova is sure to be a real treat. Be sure you give both a listen today!
