Magnum

The Birmingham, UK based pomp rockers were formed in 1972 by Tony Clarkin (guitar), Bob Catley (vocals), Kex Gorin (drums) and Dave Morgan (bass). They remained unsigned, undertaking various engagements including acting as Del Shannon's backing band, until 1978, when they were picked up by Jet Records. By this time Morgan had departed, to be replaced by Colin Wally Lowe, and Richard Baily had joined as keyboard player. Between 1978 and 1980, Magnum released three albums to a moderate degree of success, and toured relentlessly with Judas Priest, Blue Oyster Cult, and Def Leppard. CHASE THE DRAGON was released in 1982, with new keyboard player Mark Stanway, and gave them their first Top 20 album; it featured the grandiose pomp of Sacred Hour and The Spirit, both of which still appear in their current live set. Following the release of ELEVENTH HOUR problems beset the band: Clarkin became ill, and there was a dispute with Jet Records. These combined to cause the band to fragment. The troubles were soon resolved, and a number of low-key club dates persuaded them to continue. FM Records signed the band in 1985 for ON A STORY-TELLER'S NIGHT. Its Top 40 success, along with a highly successful tour of the UK, prompted Polydor Records to offer a long-term contract. VIGILANTE, which featured new drummer Mickey Barker, was the first release under a new deal, and was produced by Queen's Roger Taylor. The backing of a major label paid immediate dividends with a Top 30 album and a sold-out UK tour. This success was taken one step further with WINGS OF HEAVEN, their first gold album and UK Top 10 hit. Top 40 single success came with Days Of No Trust, Start Talkin Love’, and It Must Have Been Love. Numerous compilation albums including MIRADOR and ANTHOLOGY were released along with re-issues of their back-catalogue from Jet Records. A two-year gap between official releases resulted in the Keith Olsen-produced GOODNIGHT L.A. and again Top 40 success was achieved by the single Rocking Chair, with Top 10 status for the album. Extensive touring backed-up GOODNIGHT L.A. and several shows were recorded for the double live THE SPIRIT. After years of struggling and set-backs, Magnum built up their popularity by constant touring, and through the release of high quality albums, they became one of the UK's most popular rock bands.