Rough Magic
Self-Released, 2026
9/10
The NYC trio, Bandits On The Run, return with their ‘60s and ‘70s nods amid modern folk ideas across these 14 new songs.
“Am I Your Mirror?” opens with Adrian Enscoe’s warm guitar before the vocal harmonies surround the harmonic folk qualities, and “O My Soul” follows with a cozy ambience that radiates intimacy thanks to Enscoe’s expressive pipes.
Halfway through, “White Chapel, Red Light” builds into a more rugged approach thanks to Regina Strayhorn’s well timed bass and the thumping drums, while “Tilted Universe” blends the trio’s voices alongside plenty of melody and Sydney Shepherd’s meticulous cello.
Arriving late, “Rough Magic” finds an intimate place to reside via the charming acoustic guitar and heartfelt singing, and “may this love (deux chevaux)” exits with a bare approach that’s authentic and moving.
A sophomore effort that balances rawness, lushness and cinematic moments, Bandits On The Run’s version of indie-folk is familiar yet creative and completely timeless.
Travels well with: Bandits On The Run- Now Is The Time; Amy Jay- Mnenomics