Magnum Opus

Magnum Opus is the eighth album on which Yngwie Malmsteen gathers Baroque melody, racing rhythm and spark-throwing guitar on a large scale. The solos are placed not just as speed but as a voice heightening the drama of the songs, never ending as a mere list of technique. From the aggression of “Vengeance” and the drive of “No Love Lost” to the melody of “The Only One” and the classical construction of “Overture 1622” and “Cantabile,” his neoclassical-metal design is plainly shown across both vocal songs and instrumentals, with Michael Vescera’s singing adding drama and strength. As the title suggests, it is an epic-minded record that concentrates his own language, inscribing a strong authorial character down to the abundance of ornament. Its appeal is that it pushes the flash of speed and the classical beauty of structure to the front without hesitation — a fulfilling record on which the style of mid-period Yngwie comes together powerfully.