Let’s talk about releases, particularly releases of the strange variety, which is the backdrop for an upcoming drop from slightly forgotten-about band Monster Magnet, Test Patterns: Vol 1.

Initially, I was super excited to hear they were releasing something. I kind of rediscovered Monster Magnet on a playlist binger about a year and a half ago, trying to recreate some of my favorite metal-esque tunes from high school/college within a comprehensive list. It was a trip because, holy moly, had it been a minute since I heard “Space Lord.” (Which…one of the best headbangers carpool karaoke tunes ever, and don’t even come at me, bro.)

They’ve had a handful of other scores referenced for TV/movie soundtrack or other kitschy-type promotional purposes, which I honestly feel fits the image and overall work ethic and maybe even commitment to Monster Magnet itself as a band. It’s unfortunate in a lot of regards, because, personally, I think Dave Wyndorf has this incredible classic 80s/90s metal voice, simultaneously going to crack at any point yet brings a muscular baritone throat punch leaving you lights out, KO’d, because of the sincere incredible transition he’s capable of between hitting a legitimate balance of musical delivery in pitch and primal metal scream.

Between what appears to be some health and addiction issues, reliving any semblance of a 90s psychedelic rock scene most likely isn’t going to be a productive use of Wyndorf’s time, however. Perhaps this new drop should really just be appreciated as a bridge between the early Monster Magnet and a struggle for current relevancy. Or bare minimum a simple reminder the band still exists, being Wyndorf is the only remaining original member at this point. And that’s fine, the dude still exudes coolness.

Test Patterns: Vol 1 does kind of leave me asking, “Why?” and at the same time I’m not going to argue. It’s really just a recreation of “Tab,” a precursor to 1991’s Spine of God. There’s not too much else to it. Further, I’m honestly not sure there’s a lick of musical difference between their original demo back in the late 80s with the track, yet other reviews note it to be enhanced since then. Preview the sound released on YouTube via God Unknown Records here:

The release is going to be available in two different 12” vinyls simply pressed for the collector in mind and maybe not for the audiophile who really wants to relive the sheer musical presence and vocal quality that was the Monster Magnet of yore. Both options are reviewed to be packaged nicely with a printed inner sleeve, with a deluxe version reportedly printed on orange sunshine vinyl and containing artwork that could be a showcase for someone wanting to feature it on their Instagram. Or OnlyFans if that fits better. No judgment either way. But jump on it if that’s your jam because the colored vinyl is incredibly limited to 300 copies.

I’m not sour on it, though I would be lying if I wrote I wasn’t slightly confused by the timing or purpose. Should you be in the market for an Alice in Wonderland-inspired trip down the rabbit hole after the kids are in bed which likewise gives you that vintage-y acid rock sound and nostalgia of a cast-aside trippy rock band from the 90s, this might be a good purchase for you. Drops November 11th from God Unknown Records.

@siliconeandvinyl