The Magic Numbers

With word about The Magic Numbers spreading quicker than myxamotosis at the rabbit olympics, it's probable that you want to know just why people smile so much throughout their gigs. You may care to know what it is about this fourpiece (two sets of brother/sisters) that turns twee into glee and makes you dance and sing along before you even know the words. It's down to the sweeter-than-sweet melodies, the wholesome heart-felt nature of songs like limited single 'Hymn For Her' and the wonderful connection that singer and guitarist Romeo Stodart has with his audience.

The three way vocal harmonies recall The Beautiful South doing Doves. Instant home-made pop like the sixties used to produce. 'Love Me Like You' is one Beatles song The Polyphonic Spree haven't ripped off yet. They make wonderful platinum-selling anthems that sound no more cynically created than a smelly busker at Bank station. Songs like 'Wheels On Fire' that have you there, on the floor, after twenty seconds.

The subtle complexities littered throughout are more typical of something Beck or Bright Eyes would conjure up. Grin-widening rhythmic breaks and a real dynamic energy about all they do, infinitely helped by the genuine family-fuelled chemistry they exude. Bassist Michele is Romeo's sister and drummer Sean, is the brother of Angela (second vocals, percussion). You can feel the glances and smell the ESP.

It's unlikely that those who dismiss Keane and Coldplay as being 'wet' are suddenly going to get down on both knees for The Magic Numbers, but their cuddly hippy image may just do them the world of good with those who think indie has gone all OK! Magazine recently. If ever there was a certainty for 'band most likely to stop the rain at Glasto 2005' this was it. Enjoy.