REVIEWS
for WHAT’S THAT ABOUT?
“A London three piece whose blend of rock and pop ideas creates a
great, catchy sound, Magazine Gap also folds in elements of hip hop and urban
genres to offer something truly different. Well produced and typical of their
fun but classy sound.” The Music News Site
“A truly infectious blend of pop with funk and urban elements. Its
main aim is to reach a wider audience for a band already turning heads. Thanks to its moody, well produced video and
sound, it does a great job of both.” Music Crowns
“A London three piece with a catchy urban-pop blend, Magazine Gap’s
infectious new single ‘What’s That About?’ is out now. To accompany the track,
the band have put together the classy performance video, ably demonstrating why
their three pronged sound is causing such a stir.” Indie Music Mag
“On occasion, a band comes along who makes writing good music look
simple. [But] it takes real talent to blend those basic elements into more than
the sum of their parts. The results are very pleasing indeed. The UK is in need of a new pop laced group,
and Magazine Gap might just be it.” Music Truck
“In recent years, bands such as One Republic, Maroon 5 and their ilk
have produced accessible, funk-rock-pop which has clearly struck a chord with
the masses. It’s in this company that Magazine Gap are most comfortably placed,
using fully realised funk rhythms under a pop-rock top line to create a lovely
synthesis.” Buzz Jack
“London three piece band Magazine Gap might perhaps be better
classified as proponents of pop-soul, mixing catchy rhythms with looping
melodies to create a lovely, classy blend.” whisperinandhollerin.com
“A pop-rock trio who combine
guitar, drums, piano and a tight vocal, Magazine Gap are already showing
themselves to be a sure footed London three piece with a true potential. They
are following in the sonic footsteps of successful bands such as Maroon 5, The
Feeling and One Republic, and if they can capture something of the success of
those artists they are onto a winner.” Trisickle
“With a style and vocal delivery which immediately brings to mind the
likes of early Maroon 5, Magazine Gap are clearly a band that are on to a
winner. Magazine Gap might well be a hot
independent ticket in their hometown of London in the coming years. Classily
delivered.” Real Music Network
“A song which very quickly gets you excited about this new prospect.
The combination of pop piano with the looped guitar lines, plus the pure pop
vocal is the icing on the deep, rhythmic cake.
With an album coming soon, this is the perfect time to add Magazine Gap
to your list of upcoming artists to follow.” My Baby Donkey
“Funk and soul get a pop makeover – a lean, mean three piece with a
slick sound, Magazine Gap are a pop-rock group with real potential. Their new
single mixes a funk-soul feel with an accessible melody or two to great
effect.” We Don’t Want A Proper Job
“A fun pop track which moves along with a slick beat and some lovely
swirling melodies. It’s catchy in the best way, lasting long enough to get
under your skin without outstaying its welcome.” Just Can’t Get Enough Music
“Magazine Gap are gearing up for a very promising album blending ideas
from the world of rock, pop, funk, soul and urban genres. The latest single
does a great job of whipping up excitement for the full length release. Sure footed from the start, the track
immediately brings to mind the likes of Maroon 5 – not least due to a slight
vocal familiarity as well as a reliance on a clean, repeating bass line. In
truth, the UK has never really had an answer to Adam Levine and his hugely
successful pop group – maybe it’s about time we did.” Golden Newbies
“It seemed a few years ago that pop bands with a nice funky edge were
everywhere, giving rise to the recent explosion in funk music which peaked last
year with a certain Bruno Mars/Mark Ronson collaboration. Now, the market has
been taken over by solo artists, and there’s space for a new group in search of
the limelight. There are a number of candidates in the UK at the moment, but
Magazine Gap may well be the strongest.”
Watch
This Space
"A genre bending project all wrapped in one body of work. Reminiscent of great bands, Magazine Gap offers music fans a great deal of what has been missing in music today. Strong vocal performance, great songwriting and awesome music are mainstays here. But I'm not shocked by Magazine Gap's talent because these are three guys who have toured the whole world and gained valuable experience that most of their counterparts have not. I immediately appreciated the creativity and excellence with which each song was produced. Easily one of the UK's best kept secrets." I AM ENTERTAINMENT
"A testament to an unconventional style that simply
works, bringing forth an album with soul, style and originality. They have
fused an amazing collection of various styles into a sound that is sure to
amaze even seasoned musicians and producers. The pop/rock style is truly
unique." John Cascio -
Sonic Shocks
“It’s groovy, it’s smooth, it’s awesome in so many
ways. The album has all the ingredients a record needs to be beyond
incredible. It’s catchy, it’s old but new, and something we don’t
see in the music industry these days. It’s impossible not to love it. They
have a Jamiroquai meets Santana meets Matchbox Twenty style. The
piano is one of the main stars with perfectly tuned vocals and drums doing what
they know best to create something irresistible. This is one of those records
and one of those bands. “Our Last Stand” is probably my favorite
track and the one that stole my heart. 4.7 / 5” GigBand
"Beautiful musicianship,
intricate rhythms - meticulously layered, carefully crafted songs from a group
of musicians who know their mark, and how to hit it each and every time.
Through the myriad of colours and tones, the recurring and dominating sound is
that of a pop-rock nature. The dynamic control displayed confirms a band in
full masterful command of their music. Thoughtful musical arrangements in full
bloom; every sonic space filled out, in a measured, methodical manner, by the
virtuoso players. The spearhead of this swirl of lush musicianship is the
vocals of James Keen: a cultured, consummate voice that sounds instantly
familiar yet distinctive enough to stand on its own. A sentiment which sums up the
entire band, in fact. "Light & Shade" showcases a skilful,
refined band at the top of their A-Game and captured in crystal high-fidelity
clarity through the deft, sharp production. The finished article is simply
something to sit back and admire whatever your musical tastes." Norman Murray,
Overplay
"Coming from different
points on the musical compass, Magazine Gap combine folk-rock, hip-hop, jazz,
funk and rock into their own genre-busting sound that's given free rein on
their album. Thanks to the collective musicianship of all concerned, and the
distinctive vocals of James Keen, it works beautifully." R2 (Rock'n'Reel)
“What I like so much is that
it's just so unpredictable simply because there are so many influences on here.
Just have a listen to songs such as 'Our Last Stand', 'Inside The Bubble',
'It's All Good' and 'Senorita, I See You' and then try telling me this release
isn't a pleasurable listening experience? Not only do you get a wicked disc
full of great tunes I have to give the packaging the thumbs up! This album
should be on your 'To Buy' list. 9/10” Street Voice UK
“Fabulous music. Very, very
special. Can feel all those flavours coming through. Great groove going on with
a wonderful voice. Gorgeous!” Sue Marchant, BBC Radio
Cambridgeshire
"Fantastic sound! Truly
lovely. The album’s brilliant.” Stephen Bumfrey, BBC Radio
Norfolk
“There's folk/rock/pop mixed
with R&B/blues/soul with occasional Latin rhythms and jazz piano. The
combination somehow works and James Keen's voice stands out. Interesting stuff.
****” Sunday Mail, Scotland
“An eclectic sound that makes
for an unusual album. There are folk-rock tracks shot through with jazz
influences, and vice versa. The album is lyrically strong while the vocals of
singer-songwriter James Keen hold all the various elements together and fuse
them into a distinct sound.” Bristol
Evening Post
"Not only have Magazine
Gap burst onto the music scene with great music, they've also managed to create
a fresh and unfamiliar sound. There's no limit to their knowledge of musical
genres and the band deserves credit for nourishing their quirky style.
Lyrically insightful, thought-provoking and honest. Keen’s superb control over
his singing voice adds a skilled element to his story-telling capabilities.
There are so many famous bands nowadays who can't sing and perform live as they
sound on their albums. Magazine Gap are an exception. A first class act. If you
get the opportunity to see them live – do it! Meanwhile get hold of their album
and fall in love with their unpredictable music style!" Maybe
Magazine
“This is a terrific album that
could be a very big hit in the pop world. Has the musical void left when Simply
Red split up now been filled by a Gap? James has a wonderful soaring alto voice
very much in the style of Mick Hucknall. Title track "Light &
Shade" is a funky jazz tune that has all the right moves with piano and
drums accompanying some fine vocals. "Couldn’t Make It Up (If You
Tried)" again has a jazz sound with full pop sensibilities and would be a
hit on some of the big pop radio stations. "Slipstream" is a fine
ballad with some wonderful acoustic guitar and piano supported by a rhythm
foundation of bass guitar and drums. Stand-out track "The Promised
Land" is a superbly flowing tune, with soaring vocals and great bass
guitar line and super lead guitar that builds powerfully. The outcome is this
tremendous pop album that errs on the eclectic.” Maverick Magazine
"The fabulous group,
Magazine Gap, and their debut album, "Light & Shade" will
mesmerize you with their outstanding collection of Pop/Rock music. Magazine Gap
has a magnetic originality and creativeness in which they employ easy flowing
musical styles within their artistic arrangements. The charismatic vocals have
a captivating appeal while they use a colorful mix of instrumentation
throughout the album. "It's All Good" has an engaging vibe as the
laid back vocals grooves around the punchy bass line and dynamic piano chords.
"Something To Be Said" is infused with soothing instrumentation that
melds with the thought provoking vocals. "Our Last Stand" is another
song that has an irresistible melody and vocals that deliver passionate lyrics.
If you are a fan of the Dave Matthews Band, then you will really enjoy the
superb CD." RadioIndy
“I knew I was going to be
taken on a journey and it became clear I was listening to a sound from the
world stage. Give me real sounding band productions anytime! A very tight
performance by all the musicians, I get chills listening to the songs and
James’ unique, angelic, yet edgy voice. The title track has a fast shuffle drum
beat that I really enjoyed from drummer Brian McCook, the bass playing
is funky and solid and I really enjoyed Alex Ho’s jazz piano stylings. “Couldn’t
Make It Up (If You Tried)” is in my opinion the big hit song of this album. It
opens with such a cool and catchy verse, has a great chorus and the whole song
just had me riveted. I have to say I love everything about it; I love the
melodic rap (James is a very versatile singer), the horn section, and the
message. I’m very impressed with the production stylings and performances by
the entire band and I can’t wait to see them live again. Hats off to Magazine
Gap!” Gilli
Moon, Songsalive!
“Strong musicianship,
creativity in songwriting with well crafted and insightful lyrics, and a
wonderful mix of styles and instruments making it something that is distinctly
Magazine Gap.” Red
Hot Velvet
“This is a really good album
with a truly eclectic air about it. It has a folk rock side to it with a
wonderful heavy leaning to jazz rock too. Sounds crazy doesn't it but that's
exactly what this album is. Some fine musicianship is fronted by the singer-songwriter
James Keen. Diversity is the key here.” Classic Rock Society Magazine
“Sophisticated pop and a call
to all lovers of class” VoluME
Magazine (BBC Norfolk)
“An album of such high
production values, "Light & Shade" sounds fantastic. Their
songwriting ability and multi-layered structures have clearly had a lot of time
and effort put into them. One of my personal favourites is the epic
"Swansong" that somehow manages to combine the James Blunt-esq style
vocal sound with that of Tracy Chapman to produce a stunning world class ballad
- a really beautiful song. Another highlight is the softly sung "Slipstream"
with its understated melodies and arrangements that bring to mind the classic
Extreme track 'More Than Words'. Overall it’s a record brimming with quality
musicianship throughout and could even be suggested to fill the void that’s
been left by the demise of Simply Red.” Buzz Jack
“I arrived at the venue with
high expectations of a great night out, but it must be said with the question
"How are these guys going to sound live?" ringing in my head. The
band took to the stage and the question in my head was answered within a few
short moments of musical genius. Magazine Gap it must be said are a very
polished act recorded, with good production and arrangements abound. Some
artists fail miserably to take this "polished" sound out of the
studio and re-create to a live audience. Not Magazine Gap - they are even
better live. Period. There is a well rehearsed, yet 'jam like' quality about
their set that makes them stand out from other bands. A contradiction in terms
I know, you have to see it to believe it. Stand out song of the set for me was
“The Promised Land”, showcasing James vocal ability to the fullest.” John
Wood, Wohomusic
