The Magic Numbers - The Magic Numbers (CD 2005)

I borrowed The Magic Numbers CD from my library, loved it, then bought it here on eBay.

It's unfair to try and categorise the music of The Magic Numbers – 'indie' is as far as I'll go, to which I'll add adjectives such as 'lyrical', 'melodic', and 'distinctive'. Why these? Because on this CD you'll hear thoughtful lyrics that are clearly sung to flowing melodies that rise and fall and carry you along from start to finish.

And what about the finish? The CD has a hidden track at the end, so when track 12, 'Try', fades, do nothing – just be patient for around 4 minutes until track 13, 'Hymn For Her, plays: it's worth the wait, as this track is beautifuly composed, sung and played.

The Magic Numbers were nominated for the Mercury Music Awards 2005, but lost out to one-hit oddball band Antony and the Johnsons, with 'I Am a Bird Now'. I watched the Awards on TV, was bowled over by the performance of Antony and the Johnsons, and rushed out to buy their CD. I can't bear to listen to it now, whereas The Magic Numbers CD has hardly been out of my CD player!

If you're looking for a slightly retro gentle sound, Mamas and Papas-style harmonies and a hint of Leonard Cohen, all updated for us today, give this CD a try. You won't be disappointed.

The band's second album is due for release in November 2006.