A Kingdom of Progressive Hard Rock
Chris Gerbig | Ontario, Canada | 09/03/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Magnum's debut album from 1978 immediately established these guys as the kings of progressive hard rock. Combining an accessible (almost AOR) hard rock style with progressive shadings of classical guitar, flute and keyboard pomp, this album is a total winner in spite of throwaway track "Baby Rock Me". The chugging guitar of Tony Clarkin and the strong, emotive voice of Bob Catley provide plenty of hooks. The songs are largely centred on mythical fantasy themes. Highlights inlude "Kingdom of Madness", "Invasion", "All That Is Real", "Lords of Chaos", "The Bringer". This was the first Magnum album I ever heard and it remains one of their very best. If groups like Styx, Rush, Kansas, Shooting Star or Angel float your boat, you should definitely check these guys out. One of the best marriages of stadium rock and progressive music you are likely to hear. Full of energy, enthusiasm, fantasy and adrenalin."