HOME + NEW YORK SUITE

This is the type of exercise I particularly dislike. A second and expanded-special edition of an original album. Why the hell does a band release an album twice ? The second time being a double CD featuring some additional songs ? Why not releasing the best of their recording sessions in ONE and ONLY great album?

The answer does not belong to me. Only my rating.

The original album was not very personal (but none of Magenta's albums were). This "special" two CD version being a good additional piece of work. There is actually no need to get the single studio version (other than a price issue of course).

If you combine these comments with the ones I have made for the genuine album, you can only be comforted with the fact that this album is good, but nothing extraordinary. "Magenta" should only have released this two CD sets version only.

"Home From Home", is a great bonus. Vocals are of course superb and the bombastic feeling is extremely catchy. No doubt that it is a highlight of this second part while the most symphonic number "White Lies" is another one here.

This expanded version is the only one to grab if ever this band is suited to please you. Nothing grandiose on this additional CD. Crafted vocals, long and sophisticated songs some of which are of great value ("Truth").

Anyway, "Magenta" should have released this special edition on the spot. As such, it is only fooling the fan (and his money).

Still, three stars.