BRIEF ENCOUNTER

I remember vividly on the situation when I was waiting for the next release of Marillion's album after their seminal work "Misplaced Childhood" released in 1985. I was so afraid that the band would defunct because I had enjoyed their three albums plus one ep "Market Square Heroes". At the time, there was no internet connection or any other news with respect to new release. So I was just guessing what would happen next. It came out with "Brief Encounter" LP where it featured the band's two studio stracks "Lady Nina" and "Freaks" (that later became the name of Marillion fans club in addition to The Web). The rest of the tracks were live performance - each representing previous three albums: "Script For A Jester's Tear" - from the band's debut album with the same title, "Fugazi" - from second album with the same title and Kayleigh - the band's hit from "Misplaced Childhood" album (the third).

"Lady Nina" is an upbeat tempo music with pop / disco touch and keyboard-based rhythm section. It's probably quite accessible to introduce someone to the music of Marillion through this tune. "Freaks" is a nice rocking track with a good credo and Fish pondering vocals. "Kayleigh" played live was never heard before and it was truly a good treat as at the time I knew that this was the band's hit. "Fugazi" was performed similar with the version in "Real To Reel" album. "Script For A Jester's Tear" had never been played before and of course I did enjoy this version.

Overall, it's a good prog collection. Lately, the label has released the CD package that contains two LPs: "Real To Reel" and "Brief Encounter". I recommend you to purchase this two CD package than separate LP. Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars. Keep on proggin' .!! Progressively yours, GW.