Album Review

Magic Arm – Widths & Heights

• 11th May 2009

Folk-electronica soloist Magic Arm (Marc Rigelsford) is an intriguing proposition. The Manchester multi-instrumentalist makes sterling use of a loop pedal on debut single “Widths and Heights”, harmonising with himself through shambling verses that build irresistibly to a mellowed-out chorus recalling the most accessible efforts of the Beta Band. This is an endearing quirkfest of a song, sounding every bit a sweaty, nod-along festival-season hit.

B-side “The Ballad of Melody Nelson” is a much more sombre affair, but not lacking Magic Arm’s deft grasp of poppy melody and blissfully harmonic instrumentals. This single will whet the appetite nicely for Rigelsford’s forthcoming full-length and already-acclaimed live performances.