Kategorie: CD-Reviews | Genre: Artrock | Heft: Jahrgang 2014, eclipsed Nr. 159 / 4-2014 | VÖ-Jahr: 2014 | Wertung: 7.5/10 | Label: Steamhammer | Autor: ML
Since their reunion in 2001 Magnum have been walking on a high musical level. But only with "Princess Alice And The Broken Arrow" (2007) could they once again tie in with their magical works from the seventies/eighties. "Escape From The Shadow Garden" is by Magnum standards a very violent work. Nevertheless it reminds in all its playfulness of "Princess". It starts with the opening track "Live 'Til You Die" and continues directly with "Unwritten Sacrifice". The songwriter and guitarist Tony Clarkin has succeeded in creating some really convincing, though sometimes almost too archetypal Magnum songs. Singer Bob Catley's voice gets rougher and rougher over the years, which is really good for the songs. But what is especially positive about the new album is the keyboard work of Mark Stanway. It is not only perceptible, but also audible. At the same time Clarkin seems to move a bit more in the background as a guitarist, but nevertheless gives the songs a certain hardness. Without questioning themselves and their typical sound, Magnum take a step forward with this album.
Top track: Falling For The Big Plan
