Magic Giant at Lincoln Hall in Chicago 2018

9 Feb, 2018 John Kosiewicz Alternative, Concert Reviews, Folk, Indie, Pop, Rock

MAGIC GIANT - Photo credit: John Kosiewicz

Creating a mess across the Chicago area, a winter storm left 6 to 10 inches of snow from Thursday to Friday. However, through the thick of the snow, MAGIC GIANT, along with supporting artist, The Brevet, celebrated with the devoted fans for the Magic Misfits Tour Friday evening, February 9, 2018 at the sold out Lincoln Hall. The Magic Misfits Tour, powered by Nexus Earth, started 1/25 Portland, OR and ends Santa Barbara, CA 3/3.

Out of Los Angeles, California, Magic Giant is an indie, folk, pop band formed in 2014. The band includes: Austin Bisnow on lead vocals, cello, synthesizer, percussion; Zambricki Li on banjo, fiddle, viola, cello, harmonica, mandolin, octave mandolin, acoustic guitar, dobro, lap steel, backing vocals; and Zang on acoustic guitar, cello, bass, percussion, backing vocals.

If you were lucky enough to be one of the few “VIP” attendees, the experience included: Hanging with the band before doors open for an intimate private performance, meet & greet, unlimited hugs and hi-fives, special gift, ticket to the full show and early entrance to the venue. VIP was definitely the perfect way to start the epic night. During the private acoustic performance, the band sat on bar stools up in the balcony with fans sitting inches away from the band. Sharing stories about the meaning of the songs, MAGIC GIANT performed: “Set on Fire”, “Hideaway”, “Shake It Up”, along with sharing a new song, “Rocketman.” On a personal note, I was thrilled that the guys had literally remembered me from last years Ribfest Chicago show. With all the VIP having met and taken their photo with the band, it was down to the main stage for up front access.

MAGIC GIANT loves to connect with their audience. Tonight’s concert was no exception. As the lights dimmed and the band started to play “Hideaway,” fans were looking for them on stage. The surprise came as Zambricki and Zang entered from back of crowd to stage. With many pats on the back and the audience parting a path, they joined Austin on stage. Often during the show, Austin will give a hug, hold a hand or give a high-five to anyone within reach. The high energy of the night was only slowed down briefly when the band went out in the audience for a few acoustic songs with the “Magic Misfits.” The band also shared their new song, “Rocketman” with the audience. There was so much singing and dancing that heat generated must have melted the snow on the streets of Chicago, because the streets were much easier to get through going home. Coincidence? I think not.

In May 2017, MAGIC GIANT released their debut album, In the Wind, but they did mention to look out for an acoustic album this year. Be sure to visit their website for the latest information and tour dates at: MagicGiant.com.