Album Review: MCC (Magna Carta Cartel) – The Dying Option (Vernal Vow Records)

Martin Persner is the creative visionary and leader of MCC (Magna Carta Cartel) and after departing Ghost in 2016, he returned to pick up where he left off. Having first released a record in 2008, MCC has had sporadic releases over the past 14 years. However, now MCC is back and with their sophomore album, The Dying Option. Out on November 25th, 2022 via Vernal Vow Records.

So, what to make of this. What genre does it belong in? Does it really matter? Especially when such hypnotic music is made. MCC is not an easy band to describe. A maddening blend of retro-synths that call to distant futures but from decades before, atmosphere, dance club vibes, poppy and post-punk. That’s a simple way to sum up what the experience of MCC and The Dying Option is, but it doesn’t do this unique brand of music justice.

Music that promises to have wide-spread appeal, after all, it wouldn’t be odd to hear in many places. Music that is captivating, in that, the more time you spend with it, the more its nuances become clear, and the more the retro-futurism starts to take hold. It’s easy to think of 80’s sci-fi media and dystopian worlds when listening to this album. Especially as it sits in a darker place.

Those expecting to hear a ton of Ghost-style tunes may come away disappointed but that doesn’t mean there aren’t the occasional ones. One such tune is Darling, especially when the chorus hits. However, for the most part, MCC is its own thing and certainly delivers on interesting musical ideas.

Personally, and without generalising, the album is at its most captivating when it’s all about discordant synth. The science fiction elements are exciting and interesting. The poppy side of the band is often catchy, and that’s no bad thing, but music that puts you right in the place the band had imagined, is where it’s at. A track like Tamsa is what makes this album soar.

That does mean there are plenty of moments that just don’t quite resonate but it feels like an unfair complaint as MCC really aren’t doing anything wrong. The Dying Option has a lot of variety and plenty for everybody. That means it’s sure to be a resounding success and that’s more than deserved.

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