Parallel Worlds
Self-Released, 2018
8/10
A Florida prog-rock outfit spearheaded by mandolinist and composer Glenn Smith on this recording, this debut from Magnatar also hosts Joey Costa (bass), Reed Hayes (drums), Ryan Rivas (guitars), and Dave Norton (keys), as they offer us 9 instrumental tunes that might just remind you of the almighty Yes.
The title track starts the listen with a swift and meticulous display of soaring guitars, bright percussion and firm drumming in the melodic prog-friendly climate, and “Fourth Passage” showcases strong drumming amid the propulsive and thick landscape of memorable and creative rock.
Halfway through, “New Galaxy” is packed with exceptional guitar work and chunky bass lines, while “Night Changes” quickly lands in retro dynamics and flowing and timeless prog sounds that resonate as great today as they would have in the ‘70s.
Near the end, the sounds of birds enters the mysterious and spacey delivery of the hard hitting yet also serene “She Flies”, and “Augmented Reality” exits the listen with detailed progression as each player showcases their inestimable talent in spades.
Very tragically, Smith passed away a year after this first album arrived. At the request of Smith’s family, Magnatar will move forward with Jerry Hemby as a second guitarist, who has a lengthy history with Smith, Costa, and Norton that goes back to the Hot City/Fantasia days of the ‘70s. It will be exciting to see Magnatar’s movement forward with this addition, and though Smith’s contributions are irreplaceable, something tells me the band will continue to produce top notch, instrumental songs that embrace all the hallmarks of prog-rock we love.
Travels well with: Pixie Ninja- Colours Out Of Space; Laughing Stock- The Island