MAGNUM

(UNITED KINGDOM)

KINGDOM OF MADNESS

(1978)
LABEL:

SANCTUARY

GENRE:

MELODIC HARD ROCK

TAGS:
Easy-Listening, Intimist, Old School
""Kingdom Of Madness" shows a band still very influenced by bands like Uriah Heep or Queen but full of talent and fearsome in melodic research."
NOISE (08.09.2015)  
3/5
(0) opinions (0) comment(s)
To find traces of Magnum's beginnings, we have to go back to the early 1970s. The band will take several years before releasing their first album, "Kingdom Of Madness", taking the time to refine their songs and above all to find a contract with a label, the record only being released in 1978 although it was recorded between 1975 and 1976. At that time, Jethro Tull, Queen, Kansas or Uriah Heep were the references for many young bands. 

And it's in the same niche that the future great of melodic hard Rock evolves, a strong 70's spirit reigning throughout these 9 songs where the influences of these formations on Magnum stand out strongly. It's clear that the band is still looking for itself. But the charm works. Of course, the band doesn't invent anything, but it possesses the freshness and the ardour of youth. What's more, it has two wonderful musicians who shine with a thousand lights. Vocalist Bob Catley is perfect for alternating power and melody, and guitarist Tony Clarkin is already demonstrating admirable virtuosity.

Several titles stand out. 'Universe' is a beautiful song, very calm, melodic and bewitching, carried by Catley's soft and full of feeling voice. Between flute, acoustic guitar and electric riffs, the band signs with 'Kingdom Of Madness' a splendid epic title in the spirit of Jethro Tull. Finally, Magnum finally convince of its enormous potential with the fast 'Invasion' featuring Clarkin's guitar in a melodic spirit close to Uriah Heep.

Besides, the other songs also work but have a hard time hiding the band's influences. The catchy melodies and the 70's 'spirit of 'The Bringer', 'All That Is Real' and 'All Come Together' are very close to Queen and Uriah Heep. With the very long 'In The Beginning', Magnum gets closer to a Yes or Kansas-style progressive with drawers. The quintet has a definite talent for both pop and rock, with many rhythm changes. Finally, 'Lord Of Chaos' is a strong curiosity with a funky and disco sound that is far from what Magnum can offer. 

"Kingdom Of Madness" is a record apart. The band isn't yet this formidable creator of melodic and catchy hard rock, but it's far from being anecdotal like some of the first albums. It shows a band still very influenced but full of talent and fearsome in melodic research.
- Official website

TRACK LISTING:
01. In The Beginning
02. Baby Rock Me
03. Universe
04. Kingdom Of Madness
05. All That Is Real
06. The Bringer
07. Invasion
08. Lords Of Chaos
09. All Come Together

LINEUP:
Bob Catley: Chant
Kex Gorin: Batterie
Richard Bailey: Claviers
Tony Clarkin: Guitares
Wally Lowe: Basse
   
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