METAMORPHOSIS

If you are a bit disappointed by Magenta latest releases, like Home or Speechless (good CDs, but a little too soft), fear no more. They are now back to their 70s symphonic prog roots in full power (well, almost). I still do not know why this group is labeled here as neo prog since they have nothing neo on their sound: it is symphonic prog all over. Anyway, they are truly back in form and this is by far their most rewarding released since their masterpiece Seven.

The music is still very much influenced by Yes (specially guitar and bass parts), while some celtic and Pink Floyd overtones are now featured through Metamorphosis as a whole. A little early Mike Oldfield is also felt (on Prekestolen). But make no mistake, Magenta has a sound of their own and it is quite unique, Thanks to Rob Reeds excellency on songwriting, which is as good as his keyboard playing, and to Christina Booths great vocal work. Also of note are Stephen Frys fine guitar lines and Tim Robinsons drumming.

The music is varied and cohesive, even though there are just four tracks (two 20 minute+ epics and two short tunes). The only major problem I found on this CD is the excess of vocals: they could have let go a little more of the instrumental side and a few more solos would also be of great benefit. It seems that they decided to focus too much on the lyrics and that´s the record biggest weakness. Production and mixing are top notch. The other down side on this album is its short time: 53 minutes for a band like this is not enough. Again we ended up missing more instrumental parts.

Metamorphosis put them back on track and reminds me a lot of their fine debut Revelations. Not as startling as Seven, but a very strong showcase of one of Englands best symphonic prog bands around. Recommended.

Rating: 4 stars.