Magic Man – All Magic, No Deception At The El Rey

Magic Man live by Sean Kayden

Los Angeles – Magic Man positively presented the “magic” to the El Rey Theater on Wednesday night to a boisterous crowd. While the group had opened for other acts such as Walk The Moon and Smallpools not too long ago, this marks the first headlining tour for the Boston synth-pop buffs. Magic Man, formed by Alex Caplow (vocals) and Sam Vanderhoop Lee (guitar), established themselves back in 2010 with a self-produced debut album. In 2013 the line-up solidified with added members Gabe Goodman (bass), Justine Bowe (keyboards), and Joey Sulkowski (drums). With the roster complete, Before The Waves became the band’s first proper major full-length record via Columbia Records in the summer of 2014, a joyous rhapsody of 12 warm, nostalgic synth-pop induced tracks.

The liveliness and passion found on the record transferred over vastly with Magic Man’s live performance. Everyone in attendance apparently was there in support for Magic Man since singing along to each tune was not an issue. The band showcased 15 songs with the addition of one new song and their cover of “The Middle” by Jimmy Eat World. The slightly older-ish attendees knew that one was a cover while I’m convinced the teenagers figured it was an original tune by Magic Man. Nonetheless, the band killed it bringing their synth-rock signature flair to the 14-year-old classic song. In fact, the quintet’s full-on presentation was a blast rarely finding the need to slow down. Nevertheless, when the band turned down the volume just ever so slightly, the crowd was still under the spell of singer Caplow’s charismatic demeanor.

The members had burst onto the stage with their intro from “Texas,” but soon broke into synth-heavy track, “Waves.” It set the tone for the night—fast, electric, and immensely fun. With the crowd already jumping up and down, Magic Man kept up the upbeat vibes with follow-up tracks, “Every Day” and “Apollo.” The sense of nostalgia was in the air as Magic Man’s music feels like it’s simply reaching out to each member of the audience and stirring them in some way, shape, or form. Most of the female crowd definitely had a strong affinity toward frontman Caplow. The rest of the band complimented the singer nicely with Lee performing madly with his guitar. When Caplow stepped in the background, Lee came forward and brought a whole new meaning to the word “electric” guitar. The young guitarist unquestionably exhibited raw talents with a deep fondness for the instrument. The surprise track of the night was “Nova Scotia” off the band’s 2013’s You Are Here EP. This one was a major treat since it has always been a fan favorite. That rare moment when Magic Man did slow things down came in the form of “Honey”—an ethereal, pacifying pop track that effortlessly sinks into the soul. The audience showed great enthusiasm for it despite the band breaking away from their high-energy setting.

“Tonight” was one of several tracks of the night that the audience was singing along to. As Caplow fervidly sung the chorus, “But tonight, we’re all believers,” the crowd came together with the same intentions that nothing outside the venue was of any concern. The moment was right here, right now as everyone swayed side to side infatuated by the band’s fantastic production of tunes. Another surprise was “South Dakota,” one of the first songs the band ever crafted. It was a twilight type endeavor as it felt like a perfect way to settle down the crowd momentarily. Magic Man ended with “It All Starts Here,” a fitting closer to their set given their ideology for the night. However, as expected, the band returned relatively quickly back to the stage for an encore with their vibrant cover of “The Middle” and the top sing-along track, “Paris.” The audience exclusively and confidently sang the final chorus. The band appeared thrilled by the overwhelming response their first single had. It was a win-win for everyone that night as Magic Man awarded the audience with a rich, bold, and elating performance. In return, their ostensibly loyal fanbase displayed a profound gratitude in such a way that any band would be undeniably grateful for.

Check out Magic Man’s Facebook for the remaining dates of their national headlining tour.

Photo of Magic Man live by Sean Kayden

Sean Kayden

Sean Kayden

His father has always been an avid fan of 70s and 80s artists. He introduced Sean at an early age to the likes of many rock groups of that era. In the late 90s, Sean acquired a fondness for the likes of such alternative bands as Smashing Pumpkins, Goo Goo Dolls, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. In high school, he gravitated towards artists like Brand New, Saves The Day, and Fall Out Boy. As Sean entered California State University Fullerton, where he earned his BA in Radio/TV/Film, his music taste expanded to the realm of Broken Social Scene, The National, and Death Cab For Cutie. For as long as Sean can remember, he has always had the desire of launching his own stories that would someday be presented through television, film, and print. This form of expression continuously uplifts his spirit. Sean is a certified TRX fitness trainer and teaches group classes as well.
Sean Kayden