‘Diplacusis‘ the debut album from Magnets is a fantastic entry into the indie-pop scene, blending vibrant tones with heartfelt storytelling. Siobhan McGinnity, the multidisciplinary artists behind Magnets, brings her lived experience and advocacy for disability inclusion into every layer of this record. The album will be launched with an accessible headline show at Northcote Social Club in Melbourne/Naarm on Sunday 1st December to celebrate both the release and International Day of Persons with Disability.
The album has a soft and soothing into with ‘ADHme’ before kicking into Magnets beautiful vocals that are the main focal point of the album. ‘Payphone’ encapsulate the joyous side of this album, Siobhan describe the process saying “I’d just finished watching RuPaul’s Drag Race with friends, gasbagging until midnight, when I decided to walk home. Usually, I wouldn’t feel safe alone, but I saw a payphone and knew my partner would be up, so I called him. He answered on speaker, post-gig, with a car full of bandmates. I started rambling about some story, only to realise a few minutes in that I had a long walk ahead, so I said, ‘wait a moment, I’ll call you from the next payphone.’ I then proceeded to walk payphone to payphone, from Carlton to Coburg, calling him from each to continue the story. I’m not sure what I was on about, but there was a lot of laughter and a surprising number of payphones. I almost called the song Telstra – I was so grateful they’re still free.”
Singles such as ‘Sway’ and ‘Down’ showcase Magnets’ knack for melding summery, radio-ready hooks with a more profound undercurrent. The production is clean yet experimental, weaving 90s-inspired tones with modern sensibilities. ‘Speak’ underline Magnets’ commitment to visual storytelling too, as the single’s accompanying video has garnered acclaim and even a mention at the Berlin Music Video Awards.
But what truly sets ‘Diplacusis‘ apart is its conceptual depth. The album title references a symptom of Meniere’s Disease that causes a dissonant doubling of sound – something McGinnity personally experiences. This inspiration manifests in both the soundscapes and the album’s physical presentation, with recycled vinyl pressings ensuring each copy is as unique as the music itself. The artwork, featuring an Australian-inspired painting by Deaf artist Gonketa, further cements the project’s inclusive ethos.
McGinnity’s dual roles as artist and disability advocate shine through her work, making ‘Diplacusis‘ not only a musical triumph but also a statement of empowerment. The album culminates in a celebration of self-acceptance and community, sentiments echoed in its accessible album launch coinciding with International Day of Persons with Disability.
For fans of indie-pop that challenges, uplifts, and invites reflection, ‘Diplacusis‘ is an unmissable debut. Siobhan McGinnity has crafted a record as multifaceted as her own artistic identity, a testament to her mission to make the music world – and the world at large – a more inclusive place.
