Magnum

The Profile

Magnum are an English rock band formed in Birmingham in 1972 by guitarist-songwriter Tony Clarkin and vocalist Bob Catley. Blending melodic hard rock, AOR and pomp/prog colors, they broke through with On A Storytellers Night (1985) and followed with Vigilante (1986) and Wings of Heaven (1988). After a mid-’90s hiatus, they reformed and continued releasing acclaimed albums.

Core members: Bob Catley (vocals) and Tony Clarkin (guitar, principal songwriter). Frequent fantasy cover art by Rodney Matthews. Signature songs cited in reviews include How Far Jerusalem, The Spirit, Days of No Trust, and Don't Wake the Lion (Too Old to Die Young). Associated with AOR/melodic hard rock, with touches of pomp/prog and classic metal.

DeBaser’s reviews celebrate Magnum’s blend of AOR, hard rock, and pomp/prog touches. Bob Catley’s emotive vocals and Tony Clarkin’s songwriting dominate the praise. Key albums covered include On A Storytellers Night, Vigilante, Wings of Heaven, Chase the Dragon, Magnum II, The Eleventh Hour, and Into the Valley of the Moonking. Themes: grand melodies, tasteful arrangements, and fantasy-laden artwork.