This album "MAGNUM - On A Storyteller's Night"is the fifth studio album by the British melodic rock band Magnum, released in 1985 on FM Records. The album is widely considered as Magnum's breakthrough album
In the realm of melodic rock, there are albums that stand the test of time, capturing the essence of an era and leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Among these legendary works, "MAGNUM - On A Storyteller's Night" holds a special place. Released in 1985 on FM Records, this fifth studio album by the British rock band Magnum marked a turning point in their career, propelling them to new heights of success and solidifying their reputation as storytellers par excellence.
One of the key elements that contributed to the album's brilliance was the involvement of acclaimed producer Kit Woolven. With his keen ear for detail and ability to extract the best performances from the band, Woolven played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of "On A Storyteller's Night". His collaboration with Magnum resulted in a polished and sonically rich production that perfectly complemented the band's melodic rock style.
The recording process took place at Abattoir Studios in Birmingham, England. This choice of location proved to be serendipitous, as the studio's atmosphere fostered an environment of creativity and experimentation. Under Woolven's guidance, Magnum pushed their boundaries and explored new sonic territories, infusing each track with an undeniable energy and passion.
To further enhance the album's sonic impact, Kit Woolven also took on the role of sound engineer. This dual role allowed him to fine-tune every aspect of the recording, ensuring that each instrument and vocal performance had its rightful place in the mix. The result was a meticulously crafted sound that captivated listeners from the first note to the last.
Mastering the album was entrusted to the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London. Renowned for their expertise in the field, Abbey Road's mastering engineers added the final touch of magic to "On A Storyteller's Night", ensuring that the songs sounded vibrant and balanced on vinyl. The mastering process elevated the album's overall sonic quality, allowing it to shine brightly on any turntable.
Beyond its musical brilliance, "On A Storyteller's Night" also boasts iconic album cover artwork by Rodney Matthews. The intricate and fantastical illustration perfectly captures the essence of the album's storytelling themes, immersing the listener in a world of imagination and adventure. Matthews' artwork not only adorned the album cover but also provided a visual gateway into the enchanting narratives found within the songs.
As listeners drop the needle on the 12" vinyl LP of "MAGNUM - On A Storyteller's Night", they embark on a sonic journey filled with anthemic choruses, melodic guitar solos, and evocative lyrics. The album showcases Magnum's ability to craft captivating stories through their music, with tracks like "How Far Jerusalem" and the title track "On A Storyteller's Night" transporting listeners to distant realms and engaging their emotions.
WKFM LP 34 , 1984 , UK (United Kingdom)
"MAGNUM - On A Storyteller's Night" holds a special place. Released in 1985 on FM Records, this fifth studio album by the British rock band Magnum marked a turning point in their career, propelling them to new heights of success and solidifying their reputation as storytellers par excellence.
Prog Rock / Melodic Rock
WKFM LP 34
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1984 Uk ( United Kingdom )
Kit Woolven - Producer
Kit Woolven - Sound Engineer
This album was recorded at: Abattoir Studios, Birmingham
Mastered at : Abbey Road Studios, London
Rodney Matthews - Album cover artwork
Rodney Matthews, a British illustrator of extraordinary talent, has carved a remarkable niche for himself in the world of fantasy art. With his imaginative creations and meticulous attention to detail, Matthews has brought to life countless captivating worlds and characters, enchanting audiences across the globe. Born on 6 March 1945, in London, England, Matthews discovered his passion for art at a young age and embarked on a lifelong journey that would shape the landscape of fantasy illustration.
As a child, Matthews exhibited a natural affinity for drawing, sketching fantastical creatures and landscapes that sprang from the depths of his imagination. His artistic abilities were nurtured by his family, who recognized his unique gift and encouraged him to pursue his creative pursuits. Fuelled by their support and his own unwavering determination, Matthews set out to hone his skills and make a name for himself in the art world.
After completing his formal education at Twickenham Art College, Matthews began his professional career as a graphic designer. His early work encompassed a wide range of artistic endeavors, including album covers, book covers, and advertising campaigns. However, it was in the realm of album cover artwork that Matthews truly found his calling, and his talent soon caught the attention of musicians and bands seeking to visually represent their music.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Matthews collaborated with some of the most iconic names in the music industry, including rock bands such as Nazareth, Magnum, and Thin Lizzy. His album cover artwork became synonymous with these bands' identities, visually capturing the essence of their music and captivating audiences before a single note was played. Matthews' distinctive style, characterized by intricate details, vibrant colors, and a sense of wonder, brought a new dimension to the listening experience, making him one of the most sought-after illustrators of the time.
Matthews' artistic contributions extended beyond album covers, as he lent his talents to various mediums, including book illustrations and posters. He illustrated the covers of numerous fantasy and science fiction novels, working with esteemed authors such as Michael Moorcock and Terry Pratchett. His intricate and evocative illustrations added depth and allure to these literary works, immersing readers in the fantastical worlds they portrayed.
In addition to his commercial work, Matthews also pursued personal projects that allowed him to delve further into his own creative visions. These projects included the creation of his own illustrated books, such as "The Tale of the Unicorn" and "The Pied Piper of Hamelin", which showcased his storytelling abilities and allowed him to explore new artistic horizons.
Over the years, Matthews' talent and influence have garnered recognition and acclaim worldwide. His work has been exhibited in prestigious galleries, and he has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the field of illustration. His art continues to inspire and captivate generations of artists and art enthusiasts alike, transcending boundaries and transporting viewers into realms of fantasy and imagination.
Rodney Matthews' artistic legacy serves as a testament to the power of imagination and the ability of art to transport us to new worlds. Through his intricate and awe-inspiring illustrations, he has touched the hearts and minds of countless individuals, igniting their own creative sparks and inviting them to explore the infinite possibilities of the imagination
Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )
