ShareMagnum performing their Sacred Blood “Divine” Lies Tour at Rock City Nottingham on Tuesday 17th May.
Images and Review by Kevin Cooper
Having been around since the early seventies, you could forgive a much loved Midlands rock band like Magnum for trading on past glories. But that was not the case with this band at Rock City last night. With their latest and nineteenth studio album, Sacred Blood “Divine” Lies being hailed as amongst their very best, these melodic rockers were quite happy to trade on present glories.
As the lights were dimmed and another light flashed, the charismatic white denim suited Bob Catley took to the stage. Kicking off with Soldier Of The Line, they delivered a performance that featured all of the Magnum trademarks; driving rhythms, impassioned vocals and soaring melodies courtesy of the group’s leader and songwriter; subliminal guitarist Tony Clarkin.
Enjoying a second lease of life since reforming in 2001 after a six year break, they spun through their glorious seventies and eighties with the likes of How Far Jerusalem, Les Morts Dansart and Unwritten Sacrifice.
The new tracks including the album title were slotted into the set and were obviously classic Magnum. The chorus of Crazy Old Mother was sung back to Catley by an appreciative audience, as he stood with arms aloft conducting them. Other new tracks including Your Dreams Won’t Die and Twelve Men Wise And Just were also warmly received.
The narratives were strong on every number and the harmonizing and playful interaction between the band made the show full of fun and energy. Catley still has that wonderful voice, whilst Clarkin produced some awesome guitar work.
Finishing the set with Vigilante, the encore included the timeless classic The Spirit before the evening was brought to an end with Kingdom Of Madness.
Magnum had delighted the fans with their hard rock with a progressive edge. Hard rock or progressive rock, this audience didn’t care because it was simply just brilliant.
