Search - Magnum :: Breath Of Life

A welcome comeback from a classic band

Justin Gaines | Northern Virginia | 04/29/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"After an extended hiatus, Magnum returned in 2002 with Breath of Life, their first studio album since 1994's Rock Art. I wish I could say that this is a triumphant return to the epic days of The Eleventh Hour and On a Storyteller's Night, but that's just not the case here. Instead, Breath of Life sounds exactly like what it is - a tentative first step back into a vastly different musical climate from a band that has grown a little older and a little wiser.



Breath of Life is less grandiose and epic this time around, but their unique blend of progressive, melodic and pomp rock is still very much in place. Stylistically, I'd liken Breath of Life to later releases by Marillion and Asia. It rocks at times, but for the most part it's a laid back, gloriously melodic album that showcases guitarist Tony Clarkin's considerable songwriting skills and Bob Catley's dramatic and ethereal vocals. It's a very solid album overall, though I can't help but miss the more epic material.



Ultimately, I think Breath of Life is a success both in proving worthy of Magnum's legacy and reestablishing Magnum's sound for the new millennium.

"

A solid effort

Arne Jansen | Vestskogen, Vestfold Norway | 04/11/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"If you're into bands like Asia, Toto and Marillion, this album should be just the right stuff for you. Good hooks, solid songwriting and crisp clear production. But for all it's modern production techniques, Magnum are still stuck in the past and the songs sound a little dated compared to the current music trends. It's kind of a retro trip to the 80's, but with better sound quality. It's a must have for Magnum fans, and a should have for Asia, Toto and Marillion fans."