Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * *
You should never judge a book by its cover, although in the case of Magnum’s musical adorations and front artwork muses, it is arguably safe to say that is the detail is what pulls you inside the mythical, somewhat medieval, gothic world created by the renowned Rodney Matthews, and then leaves the visitor at the door pleading to be pleasured by the sound they hear tantalisingly being played inside the citadel, the palace that shows the beauty of The Serpent Rings of to its fullest, untarnished best.
Of course, there were always going to be concerns, moments of apprehensions when long time member and stalwart of the band’s success and drive in the 21st Century, Al Barrow, left the hugely influential group, however, as with all new avenues, exploration can be its own reward.
To gell over a new recording, to maintain the feel and history of one of Britain’s premier Rock bands, takes more than being regarded as special, it takes a dominance, an understanding that in order to still sound relevant, you must embrace a new belief; there is after all nothing wrong with looking to the old gods, as long as you relish the opportunities presented by the hands of the new apostles.
For as long as there is Tony Clarkin and Bob Catley, then Magnum will always endeavour, strive and overwhelm the audiences with their sizzling bond and work partnership. There is always time to ask others to try on The Serpent Rings, to see if the one for all symbol can still be worn without cause for melting down all that went before and with Dennis Ward joining Rick Benton and Lee Morris as the keepers of the rings, the truth blazes away in the eyes of the wizard and the leader of gospel voices, that Magnum have once again released an album of sheer scope and beauty.
Across songs such as the album opener Where Are You Eden? Madman or Messiah, The Archway of Tears, The Last One on Earth and Crimson on the White Sand, the sense of continuation, of preservation of the five rings, and ultimately the exploration of a new bond is one that is truly faithful to the memory of the older fan, but fresh enough in its narrative to enthuse and entice a different discerning type of enthusiast into the citadel of Magnum.
A developing and as ever consuming sound, Magnum remain effervescent and lively.
Magnum’s The Serpent Rings is out now.
Ian D. Hall