More than fifty years at the Rock face finds the power of Magnum undulled. Here Comes The Rain is a fitting testament.

Release Date: 12th January 2024

Label: SPV/Steamhammer

Format: CD / digital / vinyl

With the sad news of Tony Clarkin’s medical condition and the postponement of any 2024 touring plans, followed almost immediately by his tragic passing, there’s even more reason to be thankful for new music from a band whose longevity is a testament to Tony and Bob Catley who’ve flown the flag for many decades.

Here Comes The Rain – what an apt title. What could be a wake should instead be a celebration as keyboardist Rick Benton, bassist Dennis Ward and drummer Lee Morris Join Bob and Tony in the thrill of the chase and the spark of creativity even after decades in the game. “At the end of the day there’s not much that’s more satisfying for a musician than to come up with new numbers that you really like,” says the late guitarist.

Ten trademark Magnum songs provide the soundtrack to the curtain call and suddenly take on new meanings. A collection that tweaks the Magum MO as pomp and prowess cross paths with epic balladeering and the occasional splash of fine riffing. It’s an album that does what it says on the tin, from the now trademark artwork, delivering what they know works well. Plenty of keyboard textures provide depth and widescreen appeal; the absence of indulgent guitar soloing a testament to Clarkin’s songwriting and making the song work rather than showing off his prowess (although he does get his moment in the closing Borderline).

Blue Tango rocks, NWOBHM style, complete with no frills chorus that encourages us to “come on rock my soul.” Just good fun and a band rocking out some fizzing keyboard lines and a riff that’ owes a little to ZZ Top grooving. By contrast, the drama of The Day He Lied adds to the prophetic feel with talk of no regrets and the melancholic Broken City.

In tweaking the tried and trusted, The Seventh Darkness declares a brassy intent courtesy of guest musicians Chris ‘BeeBe’ Aldridge (saxophone) and Nick Dewhurst (trumpet), which lend the song brilliance and shape. Listen out for the ‘lead sax’ and the way it works with Clarkin’s guitar. For a high point, check out Some Kind Of Treachery that might appear a tad saccharine but one can’t help but feel the bitter sting as the strings swell, swing and swirl and the melody stirs up a few goosebumps, while there’s a defiance and uplifting presence about I Wanna Live, buoyed by some stirring keyboards.

Given the context, Magnum fans (and the Melodic Rock observers in general) fans might look on Here Comes The Rain with rose-tinted appeal. As a swan song or curtain call, it’s a fine way to bring closure.

Here’s Blue Tango:

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