Magnum – The Serpent Rings (Vinyl)
Label: Steamhammer / SPV
Release date: January 17th, 2019
Website: www.magnumonline.co.uk
“The Serpent Rings“, album number 21 (!), immediately sounds majestically. Although Bob Catley’s voice has been slightly more powerful in the past, the Britains still got that certain and unique kind of magic. The epic sound of tracks like “The Serpent Rings“, “You Can’t Run Faster Than Bullets“ or especially “The Archway Of Stars“ perfectly fits rather heavy tracks like “The Great Unknown“ or “House Of Kings“. The British band is still going strong in 2020 despite the recent line-up change when Dennis Ward (ex PINK CREAM 69, KHYMERA) replaced longtime member Al Barrow on bass. To me, MAGNUM is a typical vinyl band for several reasons. It’s not only that they obviously emerged in a time when vinyl was everything, it’s their distinct and rather old-fashioned art rock pomp sound which is still distinguishable and despite keeping up with contemporary recording procedures, the five-piece is delivering all their trademarks. To cut it short: It perfectly fits the format. Furthermore, the stunning artworks by the legend that is Rodney Matthews (e.g. PRAYING MANTIS, THIN LIZZY) who is working with the band for decades are nothing but a match made in heaven when it comes to vinyl especially. “The Serpent Rings“ certainly is no exception. This mighty double gatefold with printed inner sleeves contains purple vinyl. Containing sixty minutes of music, side 4 is an art etching. Be quick, most of the stock has been sold out prior to its release like with many of their recent releases. This album – by all means – is a piece of art.
9/10
Martin Stark
Tracklist:
- Where Are You Eden? 5:36
- You Can’t Run Faster Than Bullets 5:37
- Madman Or Messiah 5:21
- The Archway Of Tears 6:21
- Not Forgiven 5:48
- The Serpent Rings 6:55
- House Of Kings 4:46
- The Great Unknown 5:27
- Man 5:26
- The Last One On Earth 3:32
- Crimson On The White Sand 4:53
