Not many records are inspired by moving home, but for Manchester’s Magic Arm (aka Marc Rigelsford) it was a change of domestic scene which kickstarted a creative spurt which led to his latest album, Images Rolling.
Following 2009’s debut album Make Lists Do Something, Magic Arm expands on the more lo-fi electronic tinkering with brass, strings and synths all recorded in his new home.
The combination of literally living in his own studio and a passion for soundtracks like those of The Godfather and A Fistful of Dollars all add up to a lush pop music full of ambition and woozy charm. His latest, glorious record conjures up images of Mercury Rev’s sharing some psychedelic dip with fellow Mancunian Badly Drawn Boy.
Magic Arm's music has already endeared him to the likes of Grizzly Bear and Iron and Wine while he’s played support slots with a wide range of artists including Final Fantasy, Beirut and Tune Yards. His choice of tour mate is a good indication of the sort of melodic potion he's been sipping on. Expect more shows in unexpected places across the summer but for now you need to bask in this glorious new album...
I first started writing music because...
Photography wasn't working out.
I have been making music since…
1998.
My music is…
Hope in a minor key.
You'll like my music if you listen to...
Bill Callahan or the Beta Band perhaps?
My favourite venue is…
St Pancras Old Church, London.
Music is important because…
It qualifies whatever mood you are in.
My biggest inspiration is…
Environment + mood + instrument.
My dream collaboration would be…
10cc circa 1975.
To try me out, listen to my song…
Warning Sign from the album Images Rolling.
If I wasn’t making music I’d be…
A homeowner.
In 10 years time I want to be...
37.
twitter.com/magic_arm
magicarm.co.uk
Following 2009’s debut album Make Lists Do Something, Magic Arm expands on the more lo-fi electronic tinkering with brass, strings and synths all recorded in his new home.
The combination of literally living in his own studio and a passion for soundtracks like those of The Godfather and A Fistful of Dollars all add up to a lush pop music full of ambition and woozy charm. His latest, glorious record conjures up images of Mercury Rev’s sharing some psychedelic dip with fellow Mancunian Badly Drawn Boy.
Magic Arm's music has already endeared him to the likes of Grizzly Bear and Iron and Wine while he’s played support slots with a wide range of artists including Final Fantasy, Beirut and Tune Yards. His choice of tour mate is a good indication of the sort of melodic potion he's been sipping on. Expect more shows in unexpected places across the summer but for now you need to bask in this glorious new album...
I first started writing music because...
Photography wasn't working out.
I have been making music since…
1998.
My music is…
Hope in a minor key.
You'll like my music if you listen to...
Bill Callahan or the Beta Band perhaps?
My favourite venue is…
St Pancras Old Church, London.
Music is important because…
It qualifies whatever mood you are in.
My biggest inspiration is…
Environment + mood + instrument.
My dream collaboration would be…
10cc circa 1975.
To try me out, listen to my song…
Warning Sign from the album Images Rolling.
If I wasn’t making music I’d be…
A homeowner.
In 10 years time I want to be...
37.
twitter.com/magic_arm
magicarm.co.uk
