Gig Preview: Magnetic Skies + Matt Harper
Thursday, 4th June
The Victoria, Birmingham – 7:30 pm
A night of widescreen synth‑pop, darkwave drama, and cinematic electronic energy arrives at The Victoria on Thursday, 4th June, as Magnetic Skies headline, joined by special guest Matt Harper.
Formed by vocalist/keyboardist Simon Kent and keyboardist Jo Womar, Magnetic Skies began as a studio collaboration rooted in a shared love of 80s synth‑driven post‑punk and electronic pop. What started as an experimental partnership soon evolved into a fully fledged band, with drummer Lenin Alegria joining to bring their atmospheric recordings to life on stage.
Their early EPs in 2020 established a signature sound built on pulsing basslines, analogue synth textures, and emotionally charged vocals, a blend that feels nostalgic yet distinctly modern. Their 2023 debut album ‘Empire Falling’ marked a breakthrough moment, earning praise across the alternative press and leading to high‑profile support slots with Altered Images, Heaven 17, Empathy Test, and Then Jerico.
In 2025, the band returned with new singles ‘A Place On Earth’ and ‘Back To Life’, previewing their second album ‘Fragments’. Released that November, the record expanded their sonic palette with sweeping analogue soundscapes, anthemic choruses, and themes exploring identity, connection, and modern dislocation. Produced by Simon Kent with additional work from Rob Aubrey, ‘Fragments’ cemented Magnetic Skies as one of the UK’s most compelling modern electronic acts.
Known for atmospheric, immersive live shows that blend driving electronic rhythms with dynamic stage presence, the band now returns to the road for a run of intimate UK dates, bringing the cinematic world of ‘Fragments’ to Birmingham.
Birmingham’s own Matt Harper opens the night with his cinematic brand of electronic pop. Drawing from synthpop, new wave, and indie rock, Matt’s sound is melodic, atmospheric, and instantly memorable.
Since debuting with ‘Everyone’ in 2021, he has built a global audience through his self‑produced album ‘New Sounds’ (2022), bold remix collections with Geomagnetic and producer Ryan Davies, and the rock‑leaning 2024 EP ‘Change the World’.
His single ‘Oh No’ earned international acclaim, landing features in magazines, blogs, and playlists, and receiving radio play across dozens of stations worldwide. Expect shimmering synths, big hooks, and a performance full of heart.
A Thursday night filled with cinematic synth‑pop, darkwave depth, and soaring electronic songwriting that’s perfect for anyone who loves music that blends nostalgia with a bold, modern edge.