MAGNUM: Wings Of Heaven (A.O.R.): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

"Vigilante" was clearly intended to get more visibility on FM radios. If the operation succeeded, it also made some teeth gnash within the fans of the first hour. With its cover that reminds of U2's "Unforgottable Fire", "Wings Of Heaven", the newcomer, seems to have been designed to reconcile Magnum fans of all eras.

First of all, with the help of Albert Boeckholt on the production, Tony Clarkin and his band offer themselves a sound that is at the same time actual, clear, powerful and clean. The difference with "Vigilante" is really to the advantage of Magnum's music and perfectly pays the homage that the 8 gems that compose this "Wings Of Heaven" deserve, which announces itself as one of the peaks of the British quintet's career.

Always the only master on board in terms of writing, Tony Clarkin alternates here the more accessible titles and the more convoluted compositions. In the first category, we are entitled to a few FM gems that are both catchy and fine. Among them, the irresistible and immediate "Start Talking Love" anchors its chorus in the memory for long hours, while the ballad "It Must Have Been Love" shows both class and power, reinforced by some gospel choirs of the best effect. As for the category of the titles with a more progressive coloration, it is dominated here by the majestic "Wild Swam" passing from hard riffs to aerial atmospheres with softness and delicacy, and especially by the monumental "Don't Wake The Lion (Too Old To Die Young)" rising in power throughout its 10 minutes while alternating vocal passages and instrumental parts.

The whole is executed with mastery by a team at the top of its shape. Bob Catley's voice is moving and bewitching, Clarkin's guitar leads the whole with finesse and precision and Stanway's keyboards are a little more discreet than on the previous opus, while remaining essential to the depth of the ambiences. Finally, the rhythmic section fulfills its role perfectly with efficiency, without denying itself some moments of bravery such as the bass line on the majestic "Pray For The Day".

Magnum succeeds here in the perfect symbiosis of all the elements that can shape its identity and should thus federate all the fans of its music. "Wings Of Heaven" is a must-have for all Hard FM fans, accessible, classy and finely chiseled, as well as for those who appreciate the presence of some progressive elements. A beautiful musical journey ! - Official website

MAGNUM

WINGS OF HEAVEN

POLYDOR

A.O.R.