by Lothar Land (null) Business as usual is Axel Rudi Pell's moto on this one. Fortunately, the German follows his path and sticks to his ideals on his most recent release "Magic". Although still tributing his idols Yngwie Malmsteen or Ritchie Blackmore ARP's songs just sound more fresh compared to his old colleagues. "Turned to stone" is hard rock to the core, "Magic" is a little more epic and "The clown is dead" might even advance to Pell's absolut masterpiece. As usual Pell is perfectly supported by his team featuring Jeff Scott Soto who lends Pell's songs his voice and gives his songs the soul they need. Overall "Magic" is a great hard rock album without any flaws.