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Metal

Formed in February 2001 in Kelowna, BC. All members had played together in the past with the exception of Matt and Derek. There is a strange story there of knowing all the same people and not each other. As well, Clay and Derek had played together in a ‘serious’ band for a couple years. After playing around the Okanagan in other bands it seems to have come to it’s logical, and some would say natural, point of progression. Or better, aggression. It seems to have chosen them and there is no turning back now. The main focus of Magnum Opus is writing good songs. To them there is no point in anything else if the music is not there. Musicianship combined with a good lyrical message is the only way. There is no room for movement there. This is what happens when these four guys get together. Bottom line. Magnum Opus is currently enjoying a rapidly growing fan base and are pushing to extend the reach of their music. Continuing to write, record and play live in the name of fun is the goal. Where it takes them…

Members

Drums- Matt Lanthier

Having been playing drums for many years Matt has extensive live and recording experience. Look up ‘extrovert’ in the dictionary and this guy’s picture will be there. While Magnum Opus is the main gig for Matt he continues to play with other people when they are in need of a drummer. Exposing him to different genres and styles of music.

Guitar- Clay Huth

Clay has played guitar for 12 years. This guy is a practicing machine. Very rarely does he not have a guitar around his neck. He still takes lessons to this day. He brings the ‘big crunch’ and takes no prisoners. (Spoken in nature show commentator voice) Quiet, he is the perfect example of emotion expressed through music.

Vocals- Derek Halvorsen

Derek brings the growl. Currently he is the main lyricist as well. Message through music is the philosophy. A mere glance at the lyrics confirms this is quite obvious. He prefers to keep things slightly encrypted in poetry and states ‘Well, I’m not going to just give it you, you have to work for it.’ Inner strength to believe you can overcome and accomplish anything a reoccurring theme. Influences are many including Phil Anselmo, James Hetfield and Mike Patton. As a side note Derek is responsible for the creation of their web site.

bass- Ryan Mackay

What to say about Ryan Mackay? Even if you don’t like their music have a listen to the bass line. Known as ‘bass kid’ throughout high school this guy has put countless hours into perfecting his instrument. Ryan and Clay share writing duties equally and a definite style difference shows. Creating what is becoming a signature sound for Magnum Opus. While all the members have a wide variety of musical influences and tastes, Ryan’s are way out there. This is a good thing.

The demo

Magnum Opus has written a fair number of songs but these two are a fair and diverse representation of the band. It was hard to just choose two. Like choosing which child to send off to war. Craptacular!!

Track One- Underhanded (3:55)

Slow heavy groove. This song has quite a long intro that may be played with or without it. It is not on this disc. Live it is generally played but is not essential to the actual song. It is about realizing that the answers to your questions are quite often right in front of you. For whatever reason this is the game. So get used to it.

Track Two- Relapse (5:17)

Metal with a twist. This one’s about trying to quit, failing, and having the guts to keep on trying. Crank it up!

Website: http://www.magnumopus.ca
Email: info@magnumopus.ca

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