Rychard: So, Lyn, what did you reckon to them, then?

Lyn: Well, Rychard, I thought that, with excellent sound, Bob Catley's voice projected every word clearly. I was very impressed by the first set - a collection of songs spanning a 29-year-history (from 1978's Kingdom Of Madness to present day), though past material still blended well with the four current tracks Magnum aired. Ever a will-o-the-wisp, Bob conducted his audience with obvious enjoyment, inciting enthusiastic participation during classics such as How Far Jerusalem, Vigilante and the rousing opener to set two - Days Of No Trust.

Touring to record a live album to celebrate 20 years since its release, Magnum performed their Wings Of Heaven opus from beginning to end. Though the vocal emphasis has changed (Wild Swan did not scale the spine-tingling calls for home you'll
find on the original) and Don't Wake The Lion no longer boasts the percussive subtleties of electronic drum pads; Heaven's combination of rousing rockers,
commercial ballads and thought-provoking lyrical stories transferred effectively to the live arena. Don't Wake The Lion - essentially an epic paean against war - grew from an impassioned tale into a rumbling cry for unity that ended set two on a high note.

Encoring with the classic crowd pleaser Sacred Hour - longtime favourite of all Magnum fans - they left behind a satisfied audience.  Perhaps the only aspect that really surprised me was their decision to play the mixed set first.

Rychard: Yes.

Lyn: On another topic, I've been invited to take part in the nature programme on 209radio next week. 

Rychard: Really?

Writer: Rychard Carrington (with help from Lyn Guy)

Photo: Ian Whitehead

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