Translated German review of Magic Pie at  http://www.home-of-rock.de
4th April 2004 
Direct link: http://www.home-of-rock.de/CD-Reviews/Magic_Pie/Magic_Pie_Demo.html (german language)

Reviewed by Ulli Heiser

A band from Scandinavia. It normally means fast "tapping" or performers disquised as "Trolls" just been eating a warthog at breakfast, and by so doing singing ugly oinks.
But not Magic Pie. The name itself sounds musical, and fundamentally we're talking about first class progrock. In front of me there is a demo CDR containing 4 tracks. Sadly there are only four; what I hear makes me want to hear some more.

Rain, wind, something peculiar is the first thing coming out of the box. Then quickly, Keyboard and Gilberts voice, which is clear as glass, takes over. Or is it Eirik ? The fact is that both of them behave like lead singers. Rhythm variations typical for this kind of music, and a genious execution on the guitar, leads the audience through harmonious dreams. In between this; continuously insane and witty changes of styles. With great pleasure this playing lasts for 11 minutes, and it's only the first part of Illusion & Reality.

Part three I doubt, because the preliminary guitarsolo in neoclassic style gives me a definite recognition of a well known swede living in the USA,  that is to say Yngwie Malmsteen. Insane and quaint sounds from the guitar, uncultivated and heavy, sets you in a headaching atmosphere. Part five leads you back to the preliminary harmony, yet not without Y.Malmsteen beside. With this I leave the famous swede, because the guitar player from Magic Pie can do it much better himself.

Track four is a live performance from 2003 named "Without knowing why". This live "bonbon" seems a bit spent and heavy, and I'm thinking to myself; let the boys foam the fjords with this.

Whats interesting for me, is the feeling I get when I listen to this CD; On the one hand well known progstructure, on the other hand something quite new because there is a strictness from the sound of the guitar.

Magic Pie is looking for a company, contracts, promotors and gigs. To those who read this, a nordic pearl is waiting.
Thank you Jan for sending me this demo, and to not forget me when a complete CD is ready.