pluggedin2progressiverock

To start, this is my first post in quite some time. But, as usual when I stumble upon a piece of music that truly moves me I feel compelled to share it. This time it’s the latest release from the Welsh progressive rock band Magenta.

Utilizing the title, “Masters of Illusion” and following their oft used musical approach of the past this 2020 release is indeed a concept album. Depicting through their distinctive musical style the lives of classic horror movie stars from the 1950’s and 60’s. Dracula is well represented with odes to Bela Lugosi and Christopher Lee and even the Wolf Man Lon Chaney Jr. According to some musical critics this album has appeared as 1 of the top 25 Progressive Rock releases of 2020.

Led on vocals by Christina Booth, whom some, including this writer, would consider as one of the current premiere female vocalists in progressive rock. The track and video I’m highlighting is the lead song, “Bela” which of course refers to one Bela Lugosi.

The orchestral intro to the track complete with choral voices is quite compelling. What soon follows is a keyboard riff quite reminiscent to Peter Gabriel’s “San Jacinto”. That all but disappears into a blistering guitar solo by Magenta’s Chris Fry. The composition would seem to mimic the rise and fall of Bela Lugosi life itself. Majestic at times and almost mournful at others. Represented admirably throughout the song by Booth’s vocals, the keyboards of Robert Reed, bass guitar by Dan Nelson, drumming by Jiffy Griffiths and the guitar wizardry of Chris Fry.

I must admit although I have been aware of this band for years, Chris Fry on lead guitar has certainly caught my ear. He is unquestionably a player to be reckoned with any of the current progressive rock guitarists performing today. His work on this track ranges from blues to mellow acoustic to soaring sustained lead guitar.

Here’s a stanza of lyrics that could serve some of todays’ musical performers, so called influencers and social media stars as well. Fame is so intoxicating but can easily come crashing down.

Live the fame
With arms wide open
Take all that I can
Feel the love from all around
Become more than a man
I had it all
I had a ball
I wish my life would never end

Perhaps listening to this or any of the tracks on “Master of Illusion” will encourage you to revisit the life story of these early horror movie greats. The case of Bela Lugosi is quite intriguing. His rise to fame and subsequent fall can be a cautionary tale for today’s often disposable generation of stars. I would assume that is what served as the impetus for this progressive rock concept album. Performed impeccably by one of my new favorite bands, Magenta. I’ve got to admit I’m a sucker for female vocalists and tasteful lead guitar. This band and this album have it all.

Here’s Magenta’s video for “Bela” the opening track from their latest “Masters of Illusion.” It is mostly a performance by the band and showcases their exceptional musical talents. Another fine example of progressive rock emanating from the 4 corners of the 3rd rock from the sun!