Search - Marillion :: Strange Engine

Beautiful

Justin Gaines | Northern Virginia | 11/02/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This Strange Engine is quite simply one of the most beautiful albums I've ever heard. I understand that Marillion is one of the most highly regarded bands in the progressive/art rock genre, and that their back catalogue contains some truly exceptional albums, but This Strange Engine is in a class all its own and remains my favorite Marillion album.



This is an album that may not fall into the traditional progressive mold, in that aside from the title track there is not much in the way of showy instrumental passages or lengthy epics. Instead the band opts for a sound that appeals more to emotion and a sense of beauty. Much of this appeal comes from the performance of vocalist Steve Hogarth.



When original vocalist Fish left the band, it marked a turning point for Marillion's sound. Fish's fey, almost otherworldly delivery was replaced by Steve Hogarth's more earnest and (to my ears) emotional style. I know that many purists greatly prefer the Fish era albums, and that is quite understandable, as they are truly works of art, but I tend to enjoy the Hogarth albums more. They just seem to resonate more and connect with me on a more emotional level.



This Strange Engine is, so far, the best of those albums. All of the songs are excellent, but Man of a Thousand Faces, Estonia, and An Accidental Man are truly exceptional. This album is emotional, powerful, and beautiful, and I highly recommend it.

"

Almost Perfect

Marcio Delgado | Juiz de Fora, Brazil | 04/22/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The album is really great! But "Hope for the Future" is the WORST Marillion song ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"