The Magnifiers - For the People

The Magnifiers

For the People
self-released; 2016

3.4 out of 5

By Dan Weston

The Magnifiers are the youngest band I’ve had the privilege to write about it. It really made me feel old realizing three of the band member's combined age was equal to my current age. The band consists of Elliott (guitar) (17), Eden (vocals/guitar) (15), Eliza (bass) (12) and Everett (drums) (10). The band released a four-song EP entitled For The People. 

The EP sounds like it was made by kids for kids. As it should be in my opinion. The band plays a popular version of pop-punk/rock that will appeal to an audience that is about their age.

The songs are simple. It revolves around 4/4 time, distorted power chords, chugging bass line and good singing. The band simply hasn’t had enough life experience for it to translate into an original sound. They wear their influences on their sleeves mimicking a popular vibe. And in all honesty I wasn’t expecting anything more than that considering they are kids. 

The titles also reflect their age. Take for example the song “Anarchy Sucks.” They sing about well how the government kind of sucks in an anthemic way. The one song that veers away from the pop punk vibe is “Transfiguration.” I really thought the lyrics were clever and a pretty positive message for kids around their own age. Eden sings about putting down the  video games and taking a step outside.

I’d say I’ve got too many years on me to connect with the music. That being said I think this music could easily find an audience with teenagers. What's most interesting to me is seeing how this band will develop.

​ If they manage to keep playing I have the utmost certainty they will evolve, mutate and very possible reinvent their sound. Either way I’m happy that kids are still playing instruments and not pressing buttons on a midi controller.

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