FUGAZI

This was the second album by Marillion. I always found the guitar work better here than on the previous album. The bass, drums and keyboards are also really great throughout. Stylistically, this release is similar to the band's debut as both have strong progressive rock influences. This time though there's an even darker edge and more of an electronic sound, which also means the music differs from any 70's prog I have heard.

Fish's lyrics are as poetic and introspective as ever. Some songs have a complex brew of changes while some moments are more subtle. Most of the songs are great and the longer tracks prove to be quite rewarding with a bit of patience and repeated listens.

"Assassing" and "Punch and Judy" were top 40 UK singles but "Jigsaw" is my personal favourite six or seven minutes on "Fugazi". The gentle sparkling keyboards in the verses are very nice before the chorus suddenly breaks in with Fish's voice sounding very emotional and full of passion. The dark "She Chameleon" and the title track are other main highlights.

Although I'm not the biggest fan of Marillion, I have come to quite enjoy thier early music. It does sound very 80's but that isn't a major problem for me. It is very worthwhile and would be a good addition to any progressive music collection. I think the band's later stuff was stronger in many ways but this still deserves some praise. Three and a half stars,