Bob Catley. When Empires Burn (2 LP) (LP)

The Bob Catley Story is indeed one of "Legends", born in Aldershot in 1947 he moved at an early age to Birmingham where he decided on a musical career. He joined several bands at college. One of these bands was "Paradox" where he was noticed by Status Quo members Francis Rossi and Rick Parfitt. When paradox disbanded in 1970 Bob joined up with Tony Clarkin and Magnum were formed, who need no introduction in the world of quality British hard rock. They had a really good break when Jeff Glixman produced "Chase the dragon" in the early eighties, by then Magnum had crafted their own classic rock sound. They further enjoyed commercial success with "Just like an Arrow" in 1985. However, when Clarkin veered to a different style with his band "Hard Rain" Bob Catley decided to go solo and this is when "The Tower" was released with a strong input from Gary Hughes of "Ten". It was a great success and led to the release of "Legends" and "Middle Earth". These three releases have all now been reissued by Escape Music on both CD and double vinyl with lavish new artwork from Rodney Matthews and bonus tracks "The Tower" ESM390 / ESMV1021 "Legends" ESM396 / ESMV1025 / "Middle Earth" ESM399 / ESMV1028. It seems fitting that the journey should continue with "When Empires Burn" and so here it is given the same treatment as the others, a timeless addition to the Bob Catley collection.