Magnetic Man cover

Magnetic Man

Magnetic Man · 2010

76 min · 17 tracks · dubstep

Pulsating basslines merge with ethereal vocals, creating a captivating soundscape that defines the essence of modern dubstep.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    I Need Air — This track combines an infectious vocal hook with a dynamic beat and deep bass, exemplifying the album's blend of accessibility and experimental sound. Its chart performance helped define the mainstream appeal of dubstep.
  • →
    Perfect Stranger — With its atmospheric build-up and driving rhythm, this track showcases the trio's ability to create immersive soundscapes that resonate with listeners. It's a standout representation of their innovative approach to production.
  • →
    Anthemic — True to its name, this track delivers an anthemic quality with soaring synths and an engaging melody that captures the energy of live performances. It reflects the group's intention to push boundaries within the genre.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
52 /100
Foothills
Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong production and a blend of styles but lacks a cohesive narrative throughout its length.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features tracks that build intensity with heavy bass drops and layered synths, while the second half shifts to more melodic elements.
  • Several tracks incorporate vocal samples that are treated as instruments rather than traditional lyrics, blending seamlessly into the instrumental backdrop.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Flying Into Tokyo 3:10
  • 2 Fire 4:41
  • 3 I Need Air 4:18
  • 4 Anthemic 6:10
  • 5 The Bug 4:16
  • 6 Ping Pong 6:31
  • 7 Perfect Stranger 5:59
  • 8 Mad 3:47
  • 9 Boiling Water 3:38
  • 10 K Dance 3:18
  • 11 Crossover 4:17
  • 12 Box of Ghosts 3:47
  • 13 Karma Crazy 4:15
  • 14 Getting Nowhere 4:31
  • 15 I Need Air (Redlight remix) 4:22
  • 16 Perfect Stranger (Benga remix) 4:42
  • 17 Getting Nowhere (Skream remix) 4:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata