Magazine Avenue

One of Savannah’s newer bands, Magazine Avenue, has quietly established a following in this town known for it’s musical heritage. Although Mag Ave, for short, is a product of SCAD along with perhaps hundreds of other bands, there is something different about these guys that is garnering them attention among the young. They bring to the stage a variety of sounds. Not only do they put their own spin on classics such as “Jolene,” they create tunes that when heard live stir something within. Their energy and candor makes you wanna laugh, sing and dance right along with them.

Before Mag Ave even begins their set, it is clear that this group of five guys are simply in it to have fun. Absent is the egocentric machismo that many musicians exude. Seeing Mag Ave perform at the Wormhole a couple weeks back reminded me of what small, intimate shows should be like. Although modest in size, the crowd of thirty or so was on their feet and clearly having a blast. It’s no wonder that bassist and singer, Schuyler Burks describes the group as “the Savannah celebration factory.” When I asked him to tell me a little about the band, Burks added, “We kill the sound. We dance, we sing, and we make a sound sensation. You hear gospel? You hear truth? You hear a little rock’n’roll? That is the book of Mag Ave, open and roaming through Savannah, Georgia.”

Their description for themselves should immiately tell you that Magazine Avenue is different. Still in their infancy, Mag Ave embraces their rawness. If you are wanting to see a put-together group with a neat set and mastered album on the shelves, this is not the act for you. Their spontaneity and rough edges is this band’s biggest asset. If you have an open mind, I guarantee you that they will charm your ears and before you know it, your body will be in motion.

See them in action at the Wormhole’s grand re-opening on February 27th at 10:30pm and at Sweet Melissa’s on March 11th at 8pm.