Album Review of
Parallel Worlds

Written by Robert Silverstein
June 3, 2019 - 5:19pm EDT
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The 2019 album debut by Florida-based Magnatar, Parallel Worlds gives rise to a fantastic new sound in the world of 21st century progressive instrumental rock. It is interesting to note that the music on Parallel Worlds was composed by Glenn Smith, who adds in some unique sonic textures on his electrified 1971 Harmony A Style mandolin. In the CD booklet, the band cites YES as a major inspiration and one can easily see fans of YES, and their long-standing guitarist Steve Howe, enjoying Parallel Worlds. While Chris Squire’s ghost can be heard hovering somewhere above this album, another accurate influence would be Steve Morse in the Dixie Dregs. Progressive instrumental rock fans and jazz rock fusion fans looking for fresh musical terrain should give Magnatar a good listen.