Impending Ascension

Magellan's Impending Ascension is a truly great progressive rock work. Following the same formula as the previous Hour of Restoration, Impending Ascension features better, more consistent songwriting and a harder-edged sound. "Estadium Nacional" and "Waterfront Weirdos," both 11-minutes long, get the album off to a great start. They both feature timing and melody changes that have to be heard to be appreciated. Combined with the new, harder-edged sound, it's clear that Magellan has found its niche with this album. "Songsmith" and "Virtual Reality" are excellent five-minute songs, with the former built around a strong guitar riff and the latter around a strong melody. The last song of any consequence, "Storms and Mutiny," another 11-minute song, is about Magellan namesake Ferdinand Magellan's circumnavigation of the globe. This song builds throughout, reaching great intensity by the end on both guitar and vocals. Impending Ascension is a classic progressive rock album. ~ David White