It’s as if The Magic Numbers were backed by Slowdive and produced like ‘In Rainbows’.

Having recently played at SXSW after signing to Bella Union, Penelope Isles are definitely one of Brighton’s of-the-moment bands, so we’re happy to see them packing out a 450-cap venue in their hometown. Their sound is deep and dreamy and at times sweetly deafening. A pure pop vein runs through it, too. It’s as if The Magic Numbers were backed by Slowdive and produced like ‘In Rainbows’. It’s perfectly pitched in a way that’s both familiarly comforting and totally their own. Mid-set the singer/synth/bass player announces that it’s the birthday of her boyfriend Max who is on the sound desk. We all sing, which is nice. Our standout track is the last one ‘Gnarbone’ – they cut loose and it’s loud. We can’t wait for their forthcoming debut.