It’s on a dark, cold Yorkshire
evening that The Magic Gang rolled into town; bringing with them their dreamy,
laid back tunes that would fit effortlessly into anyone’s summer playlist. Originally
billed for the Brudenell Social Club’s Games Room (a more intimate and intense enclosure),
I was shocked on arrival to see the main room open with the top level roped off
with curtains. Although deemed as a “small” venue, even I knew it would be hard
for the Brighton four-piece to fill such a daunting arena – and sadly, the open
plan set the tone for the rest of the evening.
Despite smashing their way through
a strong setlist of devilishly infectious tracks, both old and from the
forthcoming EP (brilliantly named ‘EP’),
the band were not able to fill the glaringly empty venue. With a strong crowd
of students and enthusiastic fans, the gig would have been perfectly placed in
the originally billed intimate setting – which would have reflected their
undeniable intensity that is present in their shows.
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This aside, the band expertly
proved why they have been included in DIY Magazine’s ‘Class of 2016’ by
bringing us a maturing and developed display of searing guitars and refined
grooves. By constantly touring, The Magic Gang have slowly altered and
perfected a setlist that accurately reflects their fun and energetic nature. While
chatting to members Kris and Paeris, it became clear that the development of
such a list hasn’t been as simple as you’d imagine – “the only problem is we
have too many songs”. However, even with an embarrassment of riches, the band
are able to fit in crisp and concise renditions of their many charming
retro-indie guitar tunes that never fail to get the crowd dancing (even with a
negative punter to floor space ratio).
Old fan favourite and publicity
kickstarter ‘She Won’t Ghost’ is simple but effective, bringing with it a
vintage production and the first of many examples of seamless harmonising
between all three front men. The well-constructed new single ‘Jasmine’ is given
some edge with centre of stage Jack forever smiling, cheerfully bouncing, and
winking at any audience member he meets eyes with. With a catchy yet subtle chorus,
it is no surprise the song is gaining increasing coverage on Radio 1 (tipped as
track of the week BBC Radio 1 Introducing). Amidst some questionable mid-set
chat about mirrors, we are treated to the dreamy ‘I Wanna Get To Know Ya’ and the
never forgotten ‘Alright’. On
top of this, we are also spoilt with some numbers off the impending EP
(released in January) including ‘She Doesn’t See’, ‘Feeling Better’ and personal highlight 'All That I Want Is You'.
Unheard and unrecognised, ‘Jazzy’
(at least that’s what I think it’s called) is the dark horse of the set. With
many fans opting to force the fun and create a ten-man mosh pit, it was
seemingly lost at points. However, with close examination, it evolves into an
absolute gem that wouldn’t be out of place on the new Unknown Mortal Orchestra
album. Revolving around a modest beat and funky bassline, and with vocals lead
by bassist Gus, the track oozes with ancillary confidence and develops into a
pigeon-toed groove and indie-pop hybrid.
‘No Fun’ closes the regular show,
with all the ‘cooler’ kids showing that they already know all of the words to
it – testing its imminent status as a festival favourite in the summer. In
jest, the Brighton boys play ‘Alright’ as an encore; showing that, even in
these undecorated times, there is a place for a band unafraid of just having
fun.
With their musical career only
heading in one direction, and showing no signs of slowing, The Magic Gang are a
group not to be missed.
The band play the 100 Club as part of the NME Awards Shows series on Monday 15th February 2016.
And don't forgot about their debut EP 'EP' - [PRE-ORDER]
The band play the 100 Club as part of the NME Awards Shows series on Monday 15th February 2016.
And don't forgot about their debut EP 'EP' - [PRE-ORDER]
The Magic Gang played:
Lady, Please
She Won’t Ghost
Jasmine
Wanna Get To Know Ya
She Doesn’t See
All That I Want Is You
Alright
Jazzy
Feeling Better
No Fun
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