HOME + NEW YORK SUITE

I must say that Magenta's Home seemed a disappointment to me among initial listens, most likely because I was expecting another "Seven" or "Revolutions." I think that may be the reason it's received a somewhat flat response here on Prog Archives and elsewhere. You tinker around with a successful formula and your fans drop it the minute they first hear it. That's so unfortunate for this third release by Magenta, again in the form of a wonderfully written concept album. After initial listens didn't click with me, I put it away and came back to it in recent weeks and have been pleasantly impressed with it ever since. It's a "grower," meaning that repeated listens will show its true musical beauty. You all know what I mean, don't you?

Home is again another masterpiece delivered by the talented Rob Reed and the exquisitely beautiful voice of Christina Booth. Like on previous releases, Reed honors his predecessors showing influences from the greats. On Home, Pink Floyd, Genesis, and Marillion seem to be the major influences, though they still take a back seat to the evolving Magenta sound. I even sense a little Alan Parsons Project thrown in, unless my ears are deceiving me. Reed still showcases his Howe-influenced guitar work, but seems to have picked out a few pointers from some time listening to David Gilmour's work.

I still don't think Home is as good as Seven or Revolutions, but that doesn't mean it isn't a masterpiece. If Seven or Revolutions are at an even 5 stars, Home should be considered a 4.85. That's close enough in my book to give it the five star rating. Again, another highly recommended masterpiece in the symphonic/neo prog realm of our favorite genre.