Animal Magnetism

Animal Magnetism is the seventh album on which Scorpions set thick riffs and Klaus Meine’s soaring voice over a darker, stickier groove. Rudolf Schenker and Matthias Jabs’ guitars are aggressive yet leave an impressive melody in each song, and the pressure of the hard riffs and the soaring vocal melody form a contrast, the songs moving between dangerous tension and wide release. The strength of “Make It Real,” the undulating riff of “The Zoo” and the quiet shading of “Lady Starlight” shape the record’s depth, while the drive of “Twentieth Century Man” and the allure of the title track add a distinctive sensuality. The guitars fill the space around the vocals with changing tones and, in the solos, open the scenery all at once. It is a record whose construction keeps a memorable hook while holding its weight. It already clearly carries the heaviness and allure that would lead to worldwide success. Winning on a deep, sticky groove and alluring melody rather than flash, it is an important work adorning the entrance to the golden era.