Dream-Synth Duo Magdalena Bay will be returning to ACL this year to celebrate their new peak in their career with album Imaginal Disk.
Three EPs and two studio albums into their careers, Magdalena Bay are at the top of their game and only continuing to rise. Imaginal Disk, their latest album, released last August to universal acclaim and new popularity, allowing the band to extend The Imaginal Mystery Tour as well as play at festivals across the world. The duo has a more niche, particular style, but have been getting bigger audiences by opening for pop giants like Billie Eilish and Halsey. Their single “Image” is even a Fortnite dance. If you haven’t been to a Magdalena Bay show, now is the perfect chance to change that.
Their shows are transcendent, surreal experiences. Singer Mica Tenenbaum gives it her all, holding notes over soaring synths in “Cry For Me” while she dances in a blue jumpsuit and angel wings. The show becomes both a whimsical dream and nightmare during songs like “Death & Romance,” “Tunnell Vision” and “Vampire in the Corner,” with bright and colorful, pretty and horrifying angel and demon imagery throughout their stage design. All of this combined with the early 2000s digital style makes for a truly unique performance and show.
You can also check out South Arcade, a band that’s like Magdalena Bay but with more of an electronic rock twist. The Dare can use similar production to Magdalena Bay, but he turns his tracks into club anthems. Djo, Empire of the Sun, and Cage The Elephant are all headliners with similar elements to Magdalena Bay, though these bands are more indie pop/rock. All in all, it’s a great year to be a fan of unique production and captivating performances.
Austin City Limits 2025 will be happening on 10/3-10/5 and 10/10-10/12. Check out the full lineup and get your ACL tickets here: https://www.aclfestival.com/
I am an Austin, TX-based photographer and filmmaker. I moved from Houston to attend the University of Texas at Austin, where I graduated in 2022. I'm a lifelong music lover and spend tons of time attending shows and making music. Some current favorites are Sophie May, Farmer’s Wife, and K. Flay.
