LIVE FROM THE PIT: Magnolia Park, Defences

Tightly packed into The Garage, Magnolia Park is headlining London after completing their support on tour with Bowling For Soup. Magnolia Park are currently preparing for their newest upcoming album ‘VAMP’. There’s nothing better than screaming at the top of your lungs in a sold out room, and Magnolia Park captivates this feeling like no other.

In 2018 by Tristan Torres and Freddie Criales in a staples parking lot where Tristan used to work, Magnolia Park was born. The name ‘Magnolia Park’ being inspired by the location of where Freddie broke his leg whilst riding his razor scooter. It’s clear to see Magnolia Park love to develop rich world-building music, with personal experiences and pushing against the industry that wants to impose. Magnolia Park rise above the barriers and continue to pass the ladder down to future generations. 

Supporting the headliner act is Defences, a 4 piece metal band from Hertfordshire in the UK, with a unique metalcore style that is a must listen to. Cherry Duesbury’s vocals are something to behold, mixed with high energy and headbanging that send her braids flying around the stage. With a scream that packs a punch and only evaluates the performance and sends the crowd into even more of an excitable flurry. Defences have a brand new album ‘Shadowlight’ which is out now.

With a mix of heavier rock vs a pop-punk style, Magnolia Park have a song for every type of fan. Joshua Roberts is a vocal delight, with the energy and confidence every frontman needs. His ability to switch effortlessly between song and screaming leaves the audience in awe and the palm of his hand. Tristan Torres and Freddie Criales, both on guitar flank either side of the stage with their own confidence and adrenaline, heading towards the front of the stage intermittently to encourage the crowd further. Interaction is a highlight with this band, they understand the need to connect with fans and give back to their very loyal fanbase. 

A personal highlight being when guitar player Freddie Criales stepped forwards throughout the set to have his own vocal moments, long wire of microphone wrapped around his figure and guitar in turn. Flashing lights throughout and a thick layer of haze continuously pumping out helped to silhouette each member of the band. All of them command the stage and allow each other to bathe in the spotlight, no part of the stage isn’t explored.

‘Addison Rae’ was a crowd favourite, with everyone singing along to this pop-punk number. No corner of the room is not enthralled by the performance, the flashing lights drawing everyone's eyes to the stage. 

Cherry Duesbury from Defences joining the stage to sing ‘Animal’ with Joshua Roberts at the encore highlights Magnolia Park’s desire to uplift others. The band’s message being all about making sure next generations don’t have racial backlash in the industry is one we should all aspire to. The two only highlight and amplify each other, genuine joy and excitement feeding from the stage to and to the crowd who in turn jump, dance and rave with everyone on stage.

Closing the set with fan-favourite cover of ‘I2I’, originally from Disney’s A Goofy Movie, perfectly sums up Magnolia Park’s message and signature ability to adapt to different genres. The song is a huge part of black history and inspired all of the members when they were kids to make music, it's the perfect homage to their past and still celebrating their future.

Magnolia Park continues to push boundaries and break barriers with their message and music. With their awaited upcoming album ‘VAMP’ coming out April 11th, we can’t wait to see what they will bring to the table next.

Words and Photos: Tyler Whiting