Mark Stanway's Kingdom of Madness - Classic Magnum

Members of MAGNUM’s classic-era line-ups and other top-drawer rock alumni unite to perform Classic Magnum songs from the celebrated 1978-94 period.

Mark Stanway (keyboards), Micky Barker (drums), Richard Bailey (keyboards/flute), and Mo Birch (vocals/percussion), all of whom have previously performed with Magnum, provide the nucleus of Kingdom of Madness. For their 2024 shows they are joined by bassist Brian Badhams (Bernie Marsden’s Alaska, Steve Gibbons Band), vocalist Chris Dando and guitarist Alan Bell.

One of the UK’s finest exponents of melodic rock music, Magnum achieved high album and singles chart positions in both the UK and Europe and gained a reputation as one of the UK most captivating live bands.

“There was an extensive catalogue of great songs from the classic years of Magnum which had not been performed on stage in many years and which audiences have been screaming out for” says Mark Stanway, keyboard player with Magnum for 36 years.

Micky Barker and Richard Bailey, both members of Magnum’s classic-era line-ups, didn’t take much persuading to get involved: “This decision was easy,” says Bailey. “It was obvious the fans would welcome the chance to hear some of their favourite classic Magnum songs and we all have the essential mutual respect for each other’s musical ability.”

Barker adds: “Blowing the dust off some of the old CD’s and DVD’s from my time with Magnum, the idea of playing some of Tony Clarkin’s finest songs again became increasingly appealing.”

Vocalist Tony Martin says “It’s great to be able to give another life to some well-loved songs”.

This reunion of former members of one the UK’s most revered melodic rock bands to perform music that has touched the hearts of several generations of music fans has been met with the highest acclaim from both music critics and audiences alike:

“Pure and simple, this was a triumph for all concerned,” wrote Andy Rawll at Metal Talk. “This was no pale imitation of an inimitable band. This incredible group of musicians showed their respect of the legacy of Magnum. The beauty was in the verve and euphoria of an unfettered performance, delivered with style, that delighted those in the crowd, as much as it did those on stage.”

David Randall at Get Ready to Rock added: “This really was a night of Magnum nostalgia and – perhaps more than a Magnum gig – an evocative celebration of the band’s heritage.”