Interview

(Progressive Newsletter Nr.47 01/04)
excerpts from an interview with Trent Gardner (Vocals, Keyboards, Trombone)

Compared to the other Magellan recordings, on "Impossible figures" the songs are much shorter, concentrated. Was it a new approach or did it came out this way just naturally?

It really is part of a general push to become more "to the point", which is actually a difficult thing to do. It's hard to NOT put every idea into every song, but I'm learning!


Could you give a short description of all the songs of the new CD and what they're about?

The lyrics should really be taken at face value. I'm not hiding behind any smoke and mirrors. I know there seems to be a bit of a "religious" overtone. Perhaps I was a little more introspective this time about spiritual matters... but really, these lyrics are just representative of what I was feeling at the time the songs were written.


In which way does your brother contribute to the music of Magellan?

Wayne is a great "ensemble" guitarist. He has no ego when it comes to solos. He understands the whole picture and what I'm trying to do and can rise to any musical occassion. The fact that we are brothers really works in favor of the music.


What where the reasons for changing the record label?

It is a matter of survival. Magna Carta no longer has any credibility in the business because they treat ALL their artists so poorly. This is just the beginning of the end for them. Basically, they are reaping what they have sown. Nobody really wants to works with them any more. The other reason for change is that InsideOut has clearly become a leader in the genre.They have a vision of Magellan regaining lost ground... IF is just the first step for Magellan to have a fresh start.


Are there also additional projects like another Explorer's Club album in the planning or do you fully concentrate on your work with Magellan right now?

I am open to other projects and actually have just finished one! Visit www.jazzraptor.com for details. This is an independent release for debut artist Jack Foster. It will surprise people. Definitely worth getting! Magellan however is very focused and I will begin writing again soon.


From all the projects you've done so far, which musicians did impress you the most and why?

I would say Petrucci on "Explorers Club" and Joe Franco on "Hundred Year Flood". Both of those are performances that required serious thought which was greatly appreciated!!!!


Are there any plans of touring, maybe even in Europe or Germany?

I think IF would have to do extrodinarily well for that to happen. Playing live has always been the goal, but the economics have never been there. If you visit our website at www.magellanweb.com you can get more background on this and the issues we face as a band.The last live Magellan show was during the "Hour Of Restoration" period...1991!!!


Can you tell a little bit more about your involvements with The Time Bandits?

I play in a cover band called Time Bandits. I'm in the horn section. Our Sax Player was formerly a member of Tower Of Power & Cold Blood. You can hear a demo of the band at www.thetimebandits.com


Kristian Selm © Progressive Newsletter 2004