Jeff Cannata, a veteran of the art/prog rock genre, showcases his many talents on his new release, Mysterium Magnum—a triumph in every sense. Cannata not only sings but also plays guitar, bass, synths, percussion, and drums, and he produced the album himself. Many veteran listeners may recognize Cannata from his Arc Angel days; impressively, he keeps getting better.
Mysterium Magnum's presentation is superb. The CD comes in an elegant digipak with a booklet, featuring typically artsy sci-fi artwork that perfectly complements the art-rock and prog aesthetic. Both the music and lyrics are excellent, setting a high standard for the genre.
Cannata’s expressive vocals are matched by his remarkable guitar work and layered keyboards, creating a billowing cloud of sound that invites listeners to float away. The guitar stings and bites at just the right moments between the lyrics, while occasional intermingling of flutes adds a mystical, alluring quality—almost hypnotic at times.
This music sparks vivid visions, and the evocative lyrics only deepen the journey. The outstanding sound and production become more apparent with each listen; by the third time through, I found even more to enjoy and absorb. While I loved every song, one piece truly moved me: “Tears For America.” Its realism and emotional resonance left a lasting impression.
Certain passages truly captured my attention, such as the third verse: "Remember the days, there’re far away/and we were invisible/Nothing to worry, nothing to fear, we were untouchable." Or the sixth verse: "The tears of America, welling up inside/Like the soul of the mannequin/The heart is still alive." The album reflects on America’s suffering—through 9-11, ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, and other tragedies—making the songs deeply relatable.
Beyond powerful lyrical statements, music is a constant source of energy, inspiration, excitement, and, ultimately, truth about who we are as human beings on a planet filled with confusion and strife. As Cannata puts it, music becomes the ultimate messenger: even when the subject is dark, you can still enjoy it. That is the most beautiful thing about music like this: it becomes something you want to experience again and again.
Original Posting April 15, 2006-Updated October 8, 2026
Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck
Tracks:
01. Spirit of the Four Winds (8:04)
02. Kali Allah (2:48)
03. Somewhere Beyond the Sun (8:46)
04. 4:17 (california) (3:37)
05. King of the Mountain (5:05)
06. Promise You Heaven (5:04)
07. Book of Ages (4:39)
08. Tears of America (5:53)
09. Wanted: Dead or Alive (3:37)
10. Life: 101 (4:17)
11. French (3:03)
12. Reason to Live (3:29)
13. Reprise: Kali Allah (1:05)
Credits:
Jeff Cannata
-Lead & Bk vocals,
guitars, keyboards, drums
Greg Trabandt-Drums
Jeff Batter-Piano, synths
Bob Giannotti-Lead guitar,
flute
Chuck Beckman-Lead guitar
Jay Johnson-Lead guitar
Jimi Bell-Lead guitar
David Coe-Acoustic guitar
Rohn Lawrence-Lead guitar
Jay Rowe-Piano, synth
Pete Hodson , Rose Coppola-BK
vocals