Stephen I never think that a small project of Michael Eriksen (CIRCUS MAXIMUS) and Torsti Spoof (LEVERAGE) can produce a big impact to the AOR/melodic rock scene. Not only they came from a metallic background, but the hype surrounding this duet is relatively low and I haven't heard much about them until couple days of its release. First impression is really great but after more than five spins, it definitely has the big potential to be a legend of 2011.

The style reminds me of PLACE VENDOME, a project of Michael Kiske/Dennis Ward that also surprised many people back in 2005, and also I can hear an insertion of Scandinavian AOR hooks to differentiate this from the German's band. Most songwriting was taken care of Spoof which also shocked me as Leverage's output has been very average to me so far, but he step up his game another level and brings many killers such as 'Cheated By Love', 'Memories', and a massive power ballad that could rule the air in the 80s, 'Angel'.

What I like about this album is that they didn't make any filler at all, and there are at least 3-4 really outstanding tracks. 'Love's On The Line' and 'Lost' are two huge songs that are also my fave and I considered the best tracks, but make sure you don't miss the other big numbers like 'Holding On To Your Love', 'Smoke & Fire', and 'Tired of Dreaming'.

The production is great, the musicianship is stellar, and if you're familiar with Circus Maximus, you know how well Eriksen handled the vocal part. A major surprise of the year and this one sits at #3 on my chart and can't wait for the second release. 95%

Time Signature Bullets...

Genre melodic hard rock

For some reason, Scandinavians and rock music go really well together - almost regardless of the genre. Take, for instance, Finnish-Norwegian hard rock act The Magnificent's eponymous debut album.

Stylistically, the album offers tasty, clean and streamlined melodic hard rock which is so rich in melody and catchiness that, even if you actually do not like the album at all, you are bound to remember at least one chorus line. The musicianship is top notch, and guitar fans can look forward to many impressive guitar solos, many of which are truly virtuosic. The vocals are also no less than impressive, and Michael Eriksen of Circus Maximus fame definitely gives the album yet another point of attraction.

There are plenty of references to the golden age of AOR, and this is yet another release that rivals the best melodic hard rock and AOR releases of the 80s. Whether you are listening to a massive ballad like 'Angel' or a riff strong rock track like 'Cheated by Love' or 'Satin and Lace', if you like AOR, you are bound to enjoy it.

"The Magnificent" is warmly recommended to any fan of AOR or melodic hard rock - it simply has all the elements that make good and memorable 80s-style hard rock.

(review originally posted at seaoftranquility.org)