Seven is the sophomore release from Magenta, the band led by former Cyan member Rob Reed. Combining influences from 70's & 80's prog legends like Yes, Genesis, and Renaissance, Magenta have crafted an enjoyable platter here of symphonic progressive rock. Littered with stellar keyboard work, stinging guitar lines, and the emotional vocals of Christina, the band runs through seven lengthy songs based on the seven deadly sins.
It's hard not to like a band that starts off an album with a song like "Gluttony", which features a- capella vocals reminiscant of 90125 era Yes, the broodiness of early period Genesis, and guitar work from Chris Fry that evokes Steve Howe at his most creative. "Envy" is a much more passionate piece, and one that is highlighted by the soaring vocals of Christina and the gentle piano of Reed. This song will instantly remind you of vintage Renaissance, and although Christina is no Annie Haslam, she really proves herself on this one. A similar, yet much more symphonic feel can be heard on "Lust", while "Greed" once again brings the Yes and Genesis comparisons to the forefront. "Anger" is anything but an angry rocker, instead a tender and juicy bit of melancholy featuring string synths, piano, and a tasty guitar solo. It's also the shortest piece on the CD at just over five minutes. I hear bits of Gentle Giant mixed with Yes on the complex & symphonic "Pride", while the closing number "Sloth" is much more atmospheric and moody, and reminds me of some of the music that The Gathering has been doing the last few years.
Clocking in at over 75 minutes, you really get your money's worth here. While not the most original recording you will hear this year, it still scratches that 70's prog itch that so many of us have. Strong female vocals, vintage sounding keys, searing guitars, solid rhythm section, and long tunes with an interesting lyrical story behind them, how can you go wrong!
Track Listing
1) Gluttony (12:05)
2) Envy (9:51)
3) Lust (12:26)
4) Greed (13:52)
5) Anger (5:08)
6) Pride (12:49
7) Sloth (10:04)
Total Time
76:15
Printer Friendly Page
Send to a Friend
