MONSTER MAGNET have returned, ready to serve up another helping of riffs-n'-spliffs to Stoner Rock/Metal fans everywhere with the suitably titled "Mastermind". After the exercise in tedium that was "4-Way Diablo", the band's eighth studio release sees them take the Bull God by the horns and steer him in the right musical direction. The riffs are meatier, the hooks more memorable. There is a vitality and machismo in the music that was sorely lacking three years ago. Simply put, it rocks.

MONSTER MAGNET have frequently treaded that line between Stoner/Psychedelia and mainstream Rock or Metal, jumping from one to the other with each successive album. "Mastermind" sees more of a merging of the two, with mixed results. There are throwbacks to "Dopes To Infinity" and "God Says No" along with the more commercial appeal of "Powertrip" and "Monolithic Baby!" What gave the former group an almost mind-blowing energy was the slower-paced, kaleidoscopic songs crafted with cyclopean vision; the Space Rock trips. On this album, though, it is the straightforward rockers that truly standout. "Bored With Sorcery" , "Gods And Punks", and "Perish In Fire" are the tracks that will have you, well, Powertrippin'. As for the cosmic rides, they are a little too down to earth, a little too ... conservative. Not particularly poor, they simply lack the vigor to truly massage the gray matter.

"Mastermind" may not be a complete return to form of the MONSTER MAGNET of last century, but it surpasses its predecessor in all manners positive. It is a solid Rock /Metal release executed with the confidence and swagger expected of Dave Wyndorf and company, and that company deserves special commendations. Guitarists Ed Mundell and Phil Caivano, bassist Jim Baglino and drummer Bob Pantella are all exceptional musicians in their own right and their playing here is tight. They have that instant and natural chemistry that makes for quality and consistent performances. With this crew and Wyndorf's continued rejuvenation, MONSTER MAGNET may yet again crown themselves Tarzan, king of Mars.