Miracle Fortress - Live
[Manchester Music Box]

In order to retain his mysterious edge, Graham Van Pelt lead man of the Montreal based quintet Miracle Fortress, lets his roving guitarist and Sister Jessie S fill in the blanks. The guitarist entertains with her dry humour and friendly comments, whilst technical formalities are sorted out.

Early gatherers think nothing of treading onto the hallowed wooden floor that represents the front area upon her requests. Already they are congratulating themselves on the move, upon hearing the bending Four Tet spirited intro to the Stone Roses drum march featuring, ‘This Thing About You’. Simple lyrics are pitched with mumbling poise by Van Pelt. The acoustics hold out in this rugged basement of a venue and the extra guitar fuzz and two drummers create a friendly, hooky and slightly murky vibe.

It is this dual percussion drive that adds buoyancy and vim, to The Magic Numbers infiltrated by the Sonic Youth soiree of ‘Have You Seen in Your Dreams’. This Sparks off some gentle swaying from an audience that is contentedly soaking up the feel-good vibe. A move away from material on their engaging debut album ‘Five Roses’, in the form of ‘Hanky Panky’ adds a dose of cheeky provocation to bring smiles to faces.

A natural conclusion to a brisk and melodically potent set is Byrds fused and disco flavoured gee up ‘Maybe Lately’. Rough Trade Records may yet again be justified in casting their net in wider, less navigated waters in order to maintain a fresh roster.

Read an interview with Miracle Fortress here, that took place after this very show at Manchester Music Box.