Record Review

Magmax – Magmagenome

Artist Magmax
Label 220N
Catalog # 220N 1 / 220N 2
Year 1997
Format Vinyl - LP
Electronic Power Electronics

# Magmagenome Review

Magmax emerged as a notable force in the power electronics underground during the mid-1990s, and their self-titled album Magmagenome stands as a defining statement of their aggressive sonic vision. Released in 1997 on the 220N label, this LP captures the project at a pivotal moment, combining studio recordings with live documentation to showcase their evolving approach to harsh electronic composition.

The album opens with "Magma Zone," establishing the project's industrial foundation before expanding into the ambitious nine-minute "Birth Of Magmax," which demonstrates the group's capacity for sustained textural development. The standout centerpiece is the fifteen-minute "Magma Krupps," recorded live at Maebashi Rattan, where Magmax unleashes extended power electronics assaults that showcase their reputation for uncompromising live performance. Equally impressive is "Magma Moon Rising," which balances raw intensity with surprising compositional depth.

Magmagenome's combination of studio work and live recordings provides valuable documentation of their 1997 performances while the closing tracks like "Magma Apocalypse" and "Bastard In Magmax – Magma Mantra" reinforce the project's commitment to relentless sonic exploration. Essential listening for power electronics collectors.

Tracklist

Side A
  1. 1 Magma Zone (3:50)
  2. 2 Birth Of Magmax (9:15)
  3. 3 Magma Moon Rising (8:50)
Side B
  1. 1 Magma Krupps (Live at Maebashi Rattan on '97.10.19) (15:46)
  2. 2 Magmagenome (Live at Studio 80 on '97.07.20) (5:45)
Tracks
  1. C. Magma Apocalypse (5:56)
  2. D. Bastard In Magmax - Magma Mantra (5:40)