Magenta are like so many bands pushing long-postponed gigs through the system in 2022. In fact, some fans bought their tickets three years ago for this twice-rescheduled performance at the classy Arlington Arts Centre near Newbury.
Wisely, they’ve condensed the theatrical production they presented at the same venue in 2019 into a more manageable format, with props and actors replaced by an enhanced lighting show. It’s no less spectacular but somewhat more user friendly.
The band, however, remain the same, with the five-piece core line-up augmented by oboe and flute, while guest percussionist Simon Brittlebank is surrounded by a host of instruments, from congas and marimba to the tubular bells beloved of keyboardist Robert Reed. These extra instruments – which are superbly audible throughout – really add to the arrangements of many pieces throughout this specially curated two-hour set.
The first half of the show showcases a few of the band’s shorter pieces, some of which – including set closer Broken – haven’t seen the light of day for more than 10 years. Guest sax player Kite Parade’s Andy Foster is featured on the emotive Because, while live favourite Anger gives the opportunity for Katie Axelsen on flute and Karla Johnsson on oboe to shine. The rasping Raw stirs things up with its daring visuals. It’s a terrific opening set, and a challenge for vocalist Christina Booth since the word-heavy shorter songs require a great deal from her vocally, but she manages with aplomb.
The second part of the concert showcases four tracks from
