Concert Review: Magic Giant Gives Audiences A Starry Night
Magic Giant represents the glory of “chill music.” This indie-folk band hails from California and exudes the state’s lax, welcoming energy. Going to see them feels like you are entering a friend’s home. All that friend wants to do is play music and hang out with you, to which you find the ease a nice change of pace.
Not many exude showmanship through casualness, but Magic Giant is exactly that: casual. Austin Bis is in an excellent lead vocalist for this folk revival band. His voice enters you like a warm drink in a cold day; you just want to let the warmth in and release the inner numbness that comes from the cold. There is a natural brightness to his voice that makes every song carry an element of happiness, and allows its messages of hope, peace, and love to be openly received. Both his demeanor and voice resonate with fellow folk revivalists Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros. Both carry that inherent joy and message of love over hate. A talented band that motivates positivity is an important band to listen to.
Magic Giant is innately happy. As Austin sings. his fellow bandmates, Brian Zaghi (acoustic guitar and cello) and Zambricki Li (banjo & fiddle), mutually show their excellent musicianship and desire to be fun. Altogether they dance, laugh, and bring cheer like few bands do in the music circuit. I have never seen a pack of guys play with such an enlightened energy. You could not deny that they were happy, which allowed you to be happy, as well. This zestiness allowed the atmosphere to feel open and tranquil, which was perfect for a Friday night after work.
I know that it may sound a bit off to say that the best thing about a band is their joy, but why not? Are they great musicians? Most Definitely! There was not one song in their set that I could not hear on the radio. “Set On Fire” and “Let It Burn” felt like bona fide hits. Even their cover of Outkast’s “Hey Ya!” felt like a fresh take on this seemingly untouchable classic. Still, what is most important is the joy you have and are able to give, to which Magic Giant does. In an industry, that makes so much money off of touring, it is like they have found the secret elixir to growing their following: be happy.
P.S. Congratulations To Lead Singer Austin Bis on his engagement that night! This could explain for his tour-de-force performance. Nothing like love to make you sing with your heart.
Running Time: 1 Hour.
Magic Giant played the Mercury Lounge on April 29, 2016. Here is their official page and music. Enjoy!
