MAGIC PIE- MAESTRO (Karisma Records/ Bandcamp) (2025)

Norwegian progressive rock band Magic Pie were formed in 2001 and, to quote the press release are “known for their intricate compositions, symphonic arrangements, and blend of vintage and modern influences. Their music incorporates complex time signatures, lush keyboards, and dynamic guitar work, mixing elements of symphonic rock, jazz, and even folk.”. They are fronted by Icelandic singer and lyricist Eirikur Hauksson (whose vocal style has been compared to David Bowie) and composer Kim Stenberg,

The scope of their music suggests similarities with The Flower Kings and Spock’s Beard as the 18½ minute long opening (with a 4½ minute overture) symphonic prog powerhouse ‘Opus Imperfectus Pt.1 – The Missing Chord’ attests with its funky electric piano and bass/drums led mid-section amidst some guitar driven riffery relating an enigmatic tale embellished by e-bow and mellotron. ‘By the Smokers Pole’, a touching ballad about ageing adorned by tremulous guitar, by contrast clocks in at just over 4 minutes. ‘Name it to Tame It’ (7 minutes) is a heavy rock ballad recalling Deep Purple and their ilk with notable exchanges of solos between synth man Erling Henanger and guitarist Kim Steinberg who climaxes with a fluid wah-wah rich break, Martin Utby’s frenetic drumming keeping pace with a maelstrom of music. A vignette entitled ‘Kidoo…’ is a necessary change of pace with the sound of a wind, synth, acoustic guitar and fretless bass (Lars Petter Holstad) warning about social media and influencers. “Are we drowning in a pool of information. Are we in control?” they ask. The 7½ minute ‘Someone Else’s Wannabe’ is a natural hard-hitting follow-on lyrically and musically with a fierce Jon Lord stylised organ solo and a big chorus. ‘Everyday Hero’, the single from the album begins with chugging electric guitar, sounding a bit like early Queen in the richness of its vocal harmonies with a guitar break that Brian May would have been proud of. A 4 minute plus coda ‘Opus Imperfectus Pt.2’ concludes the tale of the maestro in fine style.

Magic Pie’s music has great depth and will repay repeated listens. Once again, they have pulled off a magical album with a broad appeal to fans of progressive and heavy rock. Bravo to the maestros!