HOME

Quite a disappointment, really. Coming at the heels of the magnificent Seven, I was eager to hear it as soon as it came out. Well, when I heard it... it was hard to point what was wrong. The musicians are as sharp as ever, with great keyboards and guitar parts, Christina is singing better than ever, so where's the problem? After repeated listenings, i found it in the songwriting. While quite symphonic in their first two CDs Magenta always had some pop tendencies that were released via EPs. Home, unfortunately, seems to change this tendency. The songs here are often too popish, too modern and, dare I say it, too american for my taste. It sounds like the ultimate Sarah McLaghlan album. Make no mistake, this is not a let down, I like Sarah Mclaghlan. But she and Magenta are, or were, very different. Seven is a strong and definitely progressive Symphonic album. So was Revolutions. Both are great prog statements and a joy to hear over and over again (specially Seven). Home is not in the same league and although quite pleasant, it gets boring after some time and it really does not make me want to listen to it over again when it finishes.

A good album anyway, thanks mostly for the band's skilful and talented members, some fine instrumental parts and Christina's brilliant singing. But a pale effort when compared to a masterpiece that was Seven and even the very good debut Revolutions. I wish they go back to symphonic prog again.