The Magic Hands (supporting Midnight Juggernauts, 7 March)

By Anna Wallace

Canberra's own The Magic Hands are the newest addition to the ever popular indie electro rock scene in Australia.

The Magic Hands comprises five young lads from Canberra Tim Dyer (Vocals), Matt Keeley (Lead), Andrew Long (Keys and Vocal), Tom Smith (Bass) and Frank Aloe (Drums).

Clearly influenced by London based "nu-rave" sensations Klaxons and a genre dominated in Australia by such as Cut Copy, Van She, The Presets and The Lost Valentinos; the boys were lucky enough to support two of their musical heroes, The Midnight Juggernaughts and Grafton Primary on Friday night.

The Magic Hands begun their set with their most electro-heavy track, showing off their unique fusion of melodic pop harmonies, enveloping synth, a funky drum and bass combo and sharp guitar riffs. This fusion, however, waivered at times during the set, with some tracks straying away from the electro sound the band so clearly strives to deliver.

This is something I'm sure experience will fix over time, as the band refine their craft. The Magic Hands' performance oozed energy and excitement that artfully masked the nerves that they were undoubtedly feeling in the presence of Australia's finest. This confidence was boosted by the small following they built up playing the local scene since their first live performance in October. The Magic Hands are definitely a band to watch out for over the coming year.