backScream Magazine
You may be wondering who Nick Magnus is? You may even think that this is some guy who has just jumped on the progressive bandwagon? Well, think again. Nick started his musical career way back in 1975, then with the legendary band The Enid. He played keyboards with Steve Hackett for eleven years, and was involved in such classics as "Spectral Mornings" and "Defector". He played with Renaissance, the list goes on, and is far too long to be mentioned in full here. "Hexameron" is however his third solo album, and it has indeed become a great CD. I haven’t heard his previous albums, but I know that this is the first time he has included vocals. Which makes it all more exciting, if you ask me. Especially when he has singers like former Steve Hackett vocalist Pete Hicks and Re-Genesis singer Tony Patterson. And yes, before I forget, both John and Steve Hackett also plays on the album, making the album even more exciting with their special brand of flute and guitar. There are several other guest musicians as well, but I guess these are the most famous ones.
So what’s "Hexameron" about? It is a concept album, where the lyrics describe topics from Sumerian mythology. I know a few things about this subject, I’ve read Zechariah Sitchin, and find it extremely interesting. A track with the title "Marduk" says it all, great lyrics, and one of the album’s finest songs. Great singing from Patterson, and great Hammond and mellotron from Magnus himself. "Sophia’s Song" is another goodie, where the female vocalist and the violin gives the song a touch of unearthly beauty. Pete Hicks sings on one my favourite track, the beautiful "Brother Sun Sister Moon". Progressive and lovely, great song. The instrumental "Seven Hands Of Time" is another highlight, where Steve Hackett plays the guitar like only Steve Hackett can. Excellent.
As you probably have understood by know, I love this album. I think you will too. As will any progressive rock fan, that has a taste for great symphonic prog with a certain Genesis influence. Well done Nick.
(Bjørn Nørsterud)
5/6 points.