Bob Catley in action. Photgraph by Ian D. Hall

Originally published by The Birmingham Mail. October 2009.

They opened the show with material from their new album Into The Valley of the Moonking, including the fantastic Cry to Yourself but Magnum soon reminded the audience of their past work with Brand New Morning and the effortless When We Were Younger.

The biggest cheer of the night deservedly went out to the thought provoking Les Morte Dansant,

Bassist Al Barrow was on fine form, sparring with ‘new boy’ Harry James on drums and providing great backing for Mark Stanway’s keyboards and Tony Clarkin’s signature guitar work.  Although Magnum don’t have to prove anything live, they consistently give their all which is why they remain a firm fan favourite,

The band ended in fine style with the hard hitting Don’t Wake The Lion and a bouncy Kingdom Of Madness.

Ian D. Hall