Magnolia Electric Co.

At first glance, there's nothing remarkable about Jason Molina: just another indie rock Napoleon in All-Stars, planted at center stage in a black tee and a blank expression. But those familiar with Molina's leadership of Magnolia Electric Co. or his band before that, Songs: Ohia, know that the spiritless shell cracks wide open when he lets loose his heartbreaking, inimitable howl. The songs are justifiably likened to such alt untouchables as Will Oldham and vintage Crazy Horse. Molina's exhaustive productivity has mellowed over time, but it's for the best: The band these days channels the most tasteful post-Poco practitioners, leaving enough room for Molina's plaintive songs to demonstrate his unadorned genius.