MAGENTA
"Metamorphosis" (The Laser's
Edge; 2008)
Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter
Although Magenta is new to me, it is clear that the band has made an impressionable imprint on the progressive rock community across the globe. I’ve always been a fan of female-fronted band including such underappreciated acts as Persephone’s Dream and Brave as well as world-wide sensations like The Gathering and Nightwish.
“Metamorphosis” features four tracks – with two tracks being 20+ minute
epics and two tracks of fairly standard length. The epic songs combine great storytelling
with dynamic music. The standard length songs are mood-setting pieces that accomplish their goals quite nicely. Admittedly
focused on classic 70s-era progressive rock, Magenta’s music has a mellow, low-impact style that reveals subtle shades and tones only after repeated
listens. The music is keyboard-driven with guitars and up-tempo band efforts making appropriate appearances. Strings and orchestra complement
the traditional band format with grace and style.
My first impression of vocalist Christina Booth was an American/English version ex-The Gathering singer Anneke van Giersbergen in a more nuanced
operatic style. In reality, Booth’s vocal style is broad in its range and expression.
Fans of Genesis-inspired progressive rock will appreciate Magenta’s “Metamorphosis.”
“Metamorphosis” was produced by Rob Reed.
Magenta is Rob Reed and Christina Booth. Reed plays most instruments except drums and strings. Booth is the lead vocalist. Reed and Booth are
joined by Chris Fry on lead guitar, Tim Robinson on drums, Martin Rosser on detuned guitar, Troy Donockley on ulieann pipes, Steff Rhys Williams on
backing vocals and strings, Matthew Everett and Helina Rees on violin, Claudine Cassidy and Abigail Blackman on cello, and Louise Evans on viola.
For more information visit http://www.magenta-web.com or http://www.myspace.com/magentauk.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2008 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised: 18 Mar 2024 11:16:03 -0500.
