A New Phase - For The Better!
I was one of those mad Marillion fans in the 80s. By the time I had got to 1988, I had seen them maybe 30 times in venues that ranged from 80,000 down to 250, all over England and even in Europe. Marillion were IT. Every album and tour had highlights that I will never forget. They defined my teenage years … and then Fish goes and leaves.
Marillion * WITHOUT* Fish. Could that ever work? Both arranged shows in London in Nov 1989. Marillion came first on 7th; Fish the 11th. Competitive! I confess going to Marillion with real doubt. Would it work? Could it work? No Fish? …...
They were a REVELATION! Oh man … one of the highlights of my gigging career. “H” came out, and he OWNED the stage. In terms of presence and vocal ability, he was faultless – and seeing him again 20yrs later (Happiness Tour: 2009), nothing has changed. Consummate professional and immense talent, fronting one of the tightest musical units I have seen. (I saw Fish a few days later, and was disappointed. Maybe the exhilaration of Marillion demanded an impossible response … dunno. The show was fine, but … I had just witnessed something special with H.
They played Season's End (all of it + B Sides). I was impressed then. I am now. It became a fixture in my car for the next 4-5yrs. This new version of the band had Big Shoes to fill. Big Albums to follow. Season's End does so, and does with style and ease. No weak tracks on show.
Berlin is arguably the best track – but best amongst very good company. No real weak link song-wise. Strong songs well played, as is the norm with Marillion. Kelly and Rothery (some incredible soaring solos on here) lead the way creating amazing sonic soundscapes which “H” could create an identity over – and it is “H”s vocal that allows them a new breadth. Easter especially works beautifully with him. King Of Sunset Town & Season's End show epics are still standard fare, but it sounds different and fresh. Hooks In You is a bit throwaway, but it rocks like a good 'un though! It ends with The Space, which is great big … errr, spacey! … track. A fine and epic way to round things off.
From here on in, “H” Marillion have forged their own path, and brilliantly so. Two bands, two paths, two styles, same name. I am proud to say: I AM A MARILLION FAN”! … back with Fish, and still with Hogarth. What a band!
