MARILLION, taking their name from Tolkien's "The Silmarillion", are the well known band that invented the "New Wave of Progressive Rock". Their sound is similar to GENESIS '72 to '82 or thereabouts, with PINK FLOYD and YES influences. The line-up, by this time, comprised Fish (his real name, Derek Dick, was worse; vocals), Mark Kelly (keyboards), Steve Rothery (guitar), Ian Mosley (drums) and Peter Trewavas (bass).
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MARILLION - FISH (1982 - 1988)
The music is directed around the poetic and sometimes fantasy lyrics of the lead singer Fish, who sounds very much like Peter Gabriel. The band got their best successes, both artistically, progressively and commercially. "Script For A Jester's Tear" showed influences from many of the great 70's progressive bands. The second studio album "Fugazi" followed in the next year. The third studio album, "Misplaced Chilhood", was a true concept album and placed MARILLION among the greats. MARILLION's fourth album "Clutching At Straws" was to be "old" MARILLION's farewell to the world. The album, dealing with the problems of drug addiction and alcoholism, was the final album to be made with Fish as front man and lyricist. Fish left the band in 1988 to pursue a solo career.
MARILLION - HOGARTH (1989 - today)
Their new sound seems more geared for radio play, although they still have an air of depression in the music. "Season's End" was issued in 1989 with a new singer, a lot less inspired by Peter Gabriel, Steve HOGARTH. Their album "Brave", considered one of the modern masterpieces of progressive rock, is a concept piece about a young girl that contemplates suicide on a bridge. This daring concept album is a spectacular exercise in multi-layered music.
Personnally, I enjoy both styles, although I prefered the old art rock style of Fish. Still, with Hogarth, MARILLION has progressed to a higher level making it one of the top bands from the mid eighties till now...