REVIEW: Magus – ‘Music For Mandrax’

There’s something electrifying about a band that arrives fully formed, and on ‘Music For Mandrax’, Pennsylvania’s Magus pull you headfirst into a world that feels dark, immersive, and completely their own.

Opening with ‘Through Darkened Glass’, the record immediately sets a tone that is both hypnotic and expansive. The rhythm locks into a steady, almost trance-like motion, while layers of synth and guitar swirl overhead, creating a sense of movement that feels cinematic in scope.

From there, ‘Music For Mandrax’ leans confidently into its identity. ‘Very Heavy Greening’ pulses with a brooding intensity, its textures thick and enveloping, while ‘Wet Skull’ introduces a more unsettling edge, pushing the band further into shadowy, off-kilter territory. There’s a constant sense of tension throughout these early moments, like the music is always building toward something just out of reach.

At the centre of the album sits ‘The Magus’, a track that feels like a statement of intent. Here, everything clicks into place: the interplay between the dual vocals, the balance between weight and atmosphere, and the careful layering that gives the track its depth. It’s a defining moment that encapsulates the band’s ability to be both commanding and elusive at once.

‘Exodus’ offers one of the album’s most striking turns, carrying a sense of momentum that feels almost cinematic, while the title-track leans deeper into the record’s hypnotic qualities. There’s a feeling that the band are less concerned with structure and more focused on creating an experience that unfolds naturally here.

By the time ‘Return to Earth’ arrives, there’s a palpable shift. The track feels like a descent back into reality, though still coloured by everything that came before. Closing with ‘The Middle Way’, the album finds a kind of balance by settling into it with confidence.

What makes ‘Music For Mandrax’ so compelling is its commitment to atmosphere without sacrificing impact. The production is rich and spacious, allowing every element to breathe, while still maintaining a sense of cohesion that ties the entire record together. The vocals, shared between Jessica and Greg Weeks, add another layer of intrigue that always serves the mood.

For a debut album, Magus arrive with vision, intent, and a sound that feels both timeless and forward-thinking. ‘Music For Mandrax’ is a record you step into wholeheartedly, and once you’re there, it’s hard to leave.