There is interesting bits on the two discs like Andrew channeling Roxy Music’s Brian Ferry at times. As you would expect there are also forays into various punks types and whatever takes his fancy. The stand-out track on either CD is a song called “Pushing Drugs”. The first CD was only available in Japan and South Korea, and only now available stateside.
If you are looking for more from WK than is already out there this might be for you. I can’t really find the attraction for the passing admirer of the guy. Interesting thing is that you can tell the guy has a variety of musical influences and is not a one trick pony. As he says “Party Hard”.
Magica: Dark Diary
They are Romanian, which is obvious when the lead singer does some spoken words bits. Despite the accent there is no sense of comedy about it and it works. Magica peddle a strong brand of melodic power metal that satisfies in the right places. There is less of the goth or epic grandiose of bands like Within Temptation or Nightwish. This is more female-vocal led/male-female duets brand of power metal. While the vocals are not operatic they are high and atmospheric. Ana Mladinovici is certainly not a growler.
Yes, the final track “Dear Diary” is a bit of misstep that will muster a smirk, but overall this a strong release from a competent band. This is less about Wagnerian symphonies trussed up as metal and more a woman fronting Iron Maiden. Its good to see the band have not been tempted to drift into the more poppier goth tinged symphonic epic metal that we hear so much of. While this might not be the most original album it is a refreshing break from “frock metal.”
As you would hope with any band Magica continue to improve with each release. This is a solid release from a talented band doing their own thing.
Something for everyone, but certainly good stuff for a soundtrack to your next thunderstorm. Stay rocking and safe whatever you get up next week.
Article comments
1 - Triniman
I agree with the comments about Stratovarius'Polaris/Polaris Live.