I received my special copy of Marillion's 'Marbles' today (it's got my name in it, along with those of thousands of others who helped this album become a reality...). I am very happy about it. I have not listened to it enough times (yet), but I will say for now that it feels like Marillion is at the top of their creativity. I have been following their music since 1986. I was in High School at the time, and 'Misplaced Childhood' had come out, after their debut 'Script for a Jester's Tear' and the smashing 'Fugazi'. Today, it's a long way from those days, but the essence of a great band, with a clean music that reminds of moments of 'Clutching at Straws', mixed with 'Brave', 'Afraid of Sunlight' and moments of brilliance such as the one seen in Yes' 'Close to the Edge' (1972), makes this album sit particularly well when listened to at night. There will be more to be said about 'Marbles' later. For now, "play it loud with the lights off..."
"A sinister cabal of superior writers."
Article comments
1 - Tom Johnson
Wow, another Marillion fan at Blogcritics?
You beat me to the punch, Manny! I need a few more times through this beast to really get a feel for it, but I totally agree - this is the best thing they've done in a long time. I've got a few pics up at my site of the impressive, beautiful package if anyone else is curious - it was well worth the money!
2 - Andrew Ian Dodge
Bumped into Marillion's bassist at the recent London Skid Row gig. He seemed rather pleased with their latest output and explained to me about their method for funding it. Its good to see such a quality band continue. I, for one, like Marillion in both eras.
3 - Neil
Marbles is an astoundingly good album, the sound of a band just creating fantastic music, unencumbered by record company pressure.
I've listened to it many time over already and it just grows and grows.
I'm going to see their fan club only warm up gig in Aylesbury this week, and with a number 7 single to celebrate it should be a real event.
The album can be bought at www.marillion.com along with loads of other good stuff.
4 - Manny
Neil:
Please DO report back with how the gig goes!
I fully agree with your comments about the album: haven't stopped listening to it either! :P
5 - Van Horn
Marbles. Yes. Marillion makes music that DEMANDS your attention. Their latest continues to display their maturity as a band and their well crafted songs are each like a sumptuous meal. I love this band.
6 - dylan
Good!!