Hard to Love a Man by Magnolia Electric Co.

Jason Molina and Magnolia Electric Co., like many other indie artists, kept themselves in business by releasing many records to keep their name in the press and remind fans that they were still out there, even if touring had taken them far from their town. In 2005, Molina and Co. hardly let up on their release schedule. The live album *Trials and Errors*, the studio album *What Comes After the Blues*, and this EP ensured that everyone knew that Jason Molina had moved on from his days as Songs: Ohia. Unlike on many later releases, Molina here sounds charged up and in a social mood, letting the band add input; Jennie Benford’s harmonies bring color to Molina’s often-drab communist grays. Slide guitar brings a country tint to the sweetness of “Bowery,” while an organ adds to the drama of “31 Seasons in the Minor Leagues.” The cover of Warren Zevon’s “Werewolves of London” lets Molina break character and the band have a little fun away from the usual existential issues.

6.7 / 10

Latest from Jason Molina's band includes three new songs and a cover of "Werewolves of London".

Jason Molina and Magnolia Electric Co were on a tear in 2005, beginning the year with a live album before issuing What Comes After the Blues and Hard to Love a Man in the space of a few months.