In the wide and multifaceted realm of Progressive Rock, few contemporary acts have managed to merge classic Symphonic heritage with a modern touch as convincingly as Magic Pie. Hailing from Norway and known for their elaborate compositions, impeccable musicianship, and lush vocal harmonies, the band returns under the esteemed Karisma Records banner with their sixth studio album, “Maestro.” Released on June 07, 2024, this new effort is not only a return to form but arguably a creative pinnacle, consolidating over two decades of evolution into a rich, cinematic, and profoundly emotional journey. The album opens with the majestic “Opus Imperfectus Pt. 1 – The Missing Chord,” a bold 18-minute suite that immerses the listener in the band’s most Symphonic and intricate soundscapes to date. From the first orchestral swells, it’s clear we’re in for a deep Prog experience. Layered guitars and vintage keyboards interlace with a rhythm section both dynamic and refined, gracefully navigating tempo changes and melodic shifts. Vocals alternate between delicate and commanding, guiding the composition with warmth and narrative power. The extended format allows the band to unfold multiple musical ideas without haste, showcasing not only technical finesse but an emotional maturity that elevates the track to instant classic status. Each instrumental break is carefully crafted, allowing guitars and keyboards to shine in fluid solos and counterpoints. The lyrical depth and compositional coherence make this a true magnum opus — a track worth the album alone. The follow-up, “By the Smoker’s Pole,” opens in an intimate, almost vulnerable fashion, with heartfelt vocals and gentle instrumental touches. As the piece progresses, it blossoms into a soaring instrumental finale marked by a passionate guitar solo that lingers emotionally long after the last note fades. With “Name It to Name It,” the band shifts gears into a more direct, riff-driven territory, blending the angular crunch of Hard Rock with the intricate textures of modern Prog. Catchy yet sophisticated, the track highlights Magic Pie’s versatility, combining memorable hooks with dazzling keyboard and guitar interplay. The rhythmic complexity and virtuosic soloing underscore the band’s commitment to high-level musicianship without losing accessibility. This is where the band thrives — at the crossroads of power and elegance. The brief but poignant “Kiddo” offers a change of pace, a tender acoustic moment clocking in at just over two minutes. Its choral harmonies and soft textures serve as a contemplative interlude before the return to full symphonic glory in “Someone Else’s Wannabe”. Here, Magic Pie once again reaches for grandeur, blending rich vocal arrangements (featuring both male and female voices) with powerful instrumental passages. The rhythm section lays a Rock-solid foundation, while keys and guitars build a Progressive narrative that would translate magnificently in a live setting. The final crescendo is particularly striking — emotionally charged, technically brilliant, and compositionally expansive. “Everyday Hero,” accompanied by an official music video, reintroduces heavier influences with punchy guitar riffs and anthemic melodies. The band maintains its balance between complexity and immediacy, crafting a song that feels personal yet universal. The second half features an instrumental bridge that builds gradually, leading to a climactic reprise of the main vocal theme — a structure that reinforces the track’s emotional arc. The album concludes with “Opus Imperfectus Pt. 2 – Maestro,” the powerful sequel to the opening epic. The title track begins with heartfelt lyrical reflections on the power and purpose of making music. This is not merely a closing number, but a thematic culmination — a love letter to music itself. From the poignant guitar intro to the sweeping vocal lines, this piece resonates with the sense of legacy and passion that defines the band’s ethos. It’s a fitting finale for an album that wears its heart on its sleeve while maintaining compositional sophistication. With “Maestro,” Magic Pie deliver one of their most accomplished works to date — a mature, Symphonic, and emotionally rich album that blends tradition and innovation with remarkable ease. It stands as a tribute to the golden age of Progressive Rock while fully embracing the sonic possibilities of the present. Whether you’re a purist who treasures the sound of the ‘70s or a modern Prog enthusiast seeking depth and complexity, this is a record that will speak to you. An album of this caliber is more than a collection of songs: it’s a musical journey, a celebration of craftsmanship, and a reminder of how powerful Prog can be when executed with heart and precision. Close your eyes, let the music flow, and allow “Maestro” to carry you on a boundless journey.
Tracklist
01. Opus Imperfectus Pt. 1 – The Missing Chord (18:29)
02. By the Smoker’s Pole (4:19)
03. Name It to Tame It (7:10)
04. Kiddo… (2:12)
05. Someone Else’s Wannabe (7:34)
06. Everyday Hero (5:10)
07. Opus Imperfectus Pt. 2 – Maestro (4:17)
Lineup
Kim Stenberg / Guitars, Vocals
Lars Petter Holstad / Bass, Vocals
Eirikur Hauksson / Lead Vocals
Martin Utby / Drums
Eirik Hanssen / Vocals
Erling Henanger / Keyboards, Vocals