About Exmagician
Exmagician, consisting of lifelong friends Daniel Todd and James Smith, have solidified their place as one of Ireland's most innovative musical duos. The Belfast pair first garnered attention with their debut album Scan The Blue, released in March 2016 via Bella Union. This album marked their transition from their previous band, Cashier No. 9, which had earned critical praise with their 2011 album To the Death of Fun, produced by David Holmes. After Cashier No. 9 disbanded, Todd and Smith sought a rawer, more playful sound, leading to the formation of Exmagician and the release of their 2015 EP Kiss That Wealth Goodbye.
Their debut album Scan The Blue built on this new direction, blending fuzzier, grittier sounds with a playful attitude, while showcasing their love for eclectic psychedelia. The album was a self-produced triumph, created with Rocky O'Reilly, featuring meticulous attention to detail and new sonic textures through pedals and synths.
In 2024, after an eight-year hiatus, Exmagician returned with their highly-anticipated second album Sit Tight, released on June 21st. The album features nine tracks that highlight Todd and Smith’s mastery as multi-instrumentalists and their knack for creating expansive yet mellow pop. The duo produced the album themselves, with mixing by Chris W Ryan, who also contributed drumming to four tracks. The structure of the album alternates between Todd and Smith’s songs, creating a conversational dynamic that mirrors their creative partnership. Standout tracks like 'Dullard' and 'Pistol' showcase their intertwined sound worlds, blending their distinctive musical voices.
Despite challenges such as periods without a label or manager, Todd and Smith's unwavering belief in their music kept them going. They took the self-released route for Sit Tight, a decision rooted in their commitment to the record’s quality. The duo’s creative process has remained largely unchanged over the years, often developing ideas individually before collaborating remotely. Todd emphasized the importance of space and time for creativity, while Smith reflected on their shared belief in their music’s potential.
Exmagician’s musical influences, from Beck and Cornelius to The Beta Band and Syd Barrett, continue to shape their sound. On Sit Tight, tracks like 'Instinct' and 'Storyline' reflect their dedication to detail and exploration, produced at home with the freedom to experiment. The duo’s "studio project" approach allows them to fully embrace their creativity, often steering away from conventional band dynamics. With a deep sense of mutual respect and encouragement, Todd and Smith have always been on the same page, pushing the boundaries of their sound together.
Video
Exmagician - Sharpen These
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