I have the pleasure to write yet another review for one of the greatest UK AOR bands, Magnum. Available in stores since mid-June, they introduce their 15^th studio album “Into the Valley of the Moonking”. I was definitely intrigued with the title and immediately put it to play.  The line-up is as follows: Bob Catley on vocals, Tony Clarkin on guitar, Al Barrow on bass, Mark Stanway on keyboards and Harry James on drums. This new studio album is produced by Sheena Sear and Magnum’s very own guitarist Tony Clarkin,

The album starts with an introductory piece that blends into the first song “Cry to Yourself”.  Although it has traits of good old 80’s Magnum sound, I’ve got to say they gave it a 70’s twist in relation to the vocal lines and guitar sound.  “All My Bridges” has got to be my favorite song on this album. It’s full of energy and Magnums-style melodies that are escorted by tight backing vocals. Same goes for “Take Me to the Edge” and “Feels Like Treason”. “The Moonking” is a solemn bluesy song and Catley’s voice rings against the scratchy guitar.  “No One Knows His Name” is one of those songs that slowly build up to an inspiring chorus with moving lyrics.  It is like a recap of “On a Storytellers Night”.  Furthermore, with tracks like “Time To Cross That River" and "A Face In The Crowd" it really slows you down.  It is relaxing and very chill out but a bit heavy for my appetite. Last but not least they pitch us an upbeat song called “Blood On Your Barbed Wire Thorns”.  Think of it a little like AC/DC rhythmic section with bluesy keyboards accompanying in the back.

Overall, I think it was a good album but different in comparison to older albums.  It lacks the Magnum spark that really has had the audiences roaring at concerts.  It seems it has a slower pace which is not bad but don’t expect to be jumping up and down in your room thinking you will hear something like “Vigilante”. You can still rock out to it though!