Exposé Online banner

Exposé Online

Not just outside the box, but denying the existence of boxes.
Covering music from the fringes since 1993.

Reviews

Magenta — The Gathering
(F2 Records 200510D, 2005, DVD)

by Paul Hightower, Published 2007-03-01

The Gathering Cover art

Magenta’s first live DVD was filmed in their native Wales in 2005 following the tour for the Seven album. Material from the Home album is previewed, though the set is mostly taken from the preceding studio albums and EPs. Fans will enjoy the set list that includes epics “Children of the Sun” and “The White Witch” plus other favorites like the storming encore piece “Pride.” Magenta flirts with progressive rock in the vein of Yes and Genesis throughout the set, though some songs have a more direct approach without the symphonic window dressing, like “I’m Alive” and the opening rocker “King of the Skies.” The DVD is visually excellent, shot with five cameras and edited together to capture the performances holistically. The audio, recorded and mixed in a very clean 5.1 surround, also shines, though some songs appear to have been aided by overdubbing. Lead singer Christina and lead guitarist Chris Fry are the main focal points of the shoot, she for her babe-alicious stage presence and he for his studly guitar prowess. Christina doesn’t seem totally comfortable on stage and neither she nor the band make much effort to connect with the audience. A little more interaction would go a long way, though having five cameras in your face must be quite a distraction. Copious bonus material, including nice — albeit short — interviews with keyboard player / band leader Rob Reed and Christina, are an added incentive. Magenta have climbed quickly into the progressive public eye and I have no doubt that this DVD will serve them well.

Filed under: New releases, Issue 34, 2005 releases

Related artist(s): Magenta, Rob Reed

 

What's new

These are the most recent changes made to artists, releases, and articles.