ON A STORYTELLER'S NIGHT

Magnum's 'On A Storyteller's Night' is a return to form after 'The Eleventh Hour', released during a fairly mediocre year in 1983 which is perhaps the worst year for prog. This album was released in 1985, a year where prog still faltered apart from Marillion's excellent 'Misplaced Childhood'. However Magnum were close with this release but although their popularity faded after a term, this was the band at their peak. Magnum were a child of the NWOBHM and were progressive in the form of thematic content, album covers and lyrics, though time signature changes and innovation were not a part of their repertoire. There are moments but it never becomes ground breaking, and in fact is more commercial and radio friendly, the radio singles are proof positive of this.

This is a type of Magnum Opus (how do you resist?) and tells a tale of an epic fantasy quest. The tracks are well known by the huge army of Magnum-ites, although 'Chasing The Dragon' is the most well known and in fact my favourite Magnum album.

'How Far Jerusalem' is a more lengthy composition than usual for Magnum at 6:26, and begins with a low drone, wind effect and choral vocals. There are backmasked sweeps over Catley's estranged vocals giving this an ethereal quality. Simpson's drums crash in and then the glorious sound of melodic metal guitars from Clarkin. This could well be the highlight of the album.

'Just Like An Arrow' features a driving rhythm and the huge wall of keyboards by Stanway. It is an 80s rock anthemic style; stadium rock in all its British pomp and glory.

'On A Storyteller's Night' is a 5 minute romp of soft metal, beginning gently building to the all important catchy chorus. This is a well known Magnum song played live countless times before the ecstatic crowds.

'Before First Light' and 'Les Morts Dansant' are commercial sounding tracks, with steady beats and a driving rhythm.

'Endless Love' has pounding drums reminding me of Fleetwood Mac's 'Tusk'. There is a cool riff and a very memorable chorus, with infectious melodies throughout.

'Two Hearts' chugs along nicely and is perhaps more AOR than prog, nevertheless I never really considered Magnum to be more than related to prog so you will never go outside the box with their music. It is all so safe and radio friendly; the soft metal of the 80s along the lines of Whitesnake, Europe and Def Leppard.

'Steal Your Heart' is another balladic track with loud guitars and strong vocal harmonies.

'All England's Eyes' is patriotic fair, though more subtle than Manowar's 'Hail To England'. I like the strong melodies on this one.

'The Last Dance' is another Magnum track where you would stick your lighter in the air at a concert. Very balladic and heartfelt vocals from Catley pleasing the female fans.

In conclusion, this album sounds like Uriah Heep at times. It has some prog elements but not every track can be considered prog. Having said that, it is still a strong rock album and one of Magnum's best. I was not blown away by it, as some appear to be, but 3 stars is still a solid rating during these tough 80s.

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