RECITAL OF THE SCRIPT

Marillion was one of the first prog bands to understand (and use for their own good) video as a valid medium to promote the band´s music. Still I was surprised this group released a full length concert VHS with such a limited discography (an album and an EP). I always though it came a little too soon, but now I´m glad they did it, because it capture the band in its early stages with professional filming standards.

The performance is absolute stunning, showing the band in great form (well, almost: I´d rather have Ian Mosley on drums but again, for historical reasons, it was nice to see original drummer Mick Pointer playing). And you have to give just one look to understand why Marillion became so big: Fish was the consumate frontman, leading the audience with ease (he´s got ´em at the palm of his hand all the time). Steve Rothery guitar playing is brilliant and fluid, a true follower of masters like David Gilmour and Andy Latimer. Pete Treawavas is from the Chris Squire school of bass virtuosity and Mark Kelly reminds me a lot of another keys genius, Tony Banks. All that in the dark ages of prog (the early 80´s!). For a lonely 70´s prog fan like me it was pure joy!

I used to watch this VHS as much as I could (it was only available for rent in one store in my hometown for years). I loved it but I resented it did not have one of my favourite tracks, The Web. So I was thirilled when I heard about its re-release in the DVD format. For it included not only The Web, but also the fantastic Grendel (until then only available in a EP VHS, but recorded at the same concert). So what was excellent in its original form became absolute essential for any prog fan. Sound and image are a little better too. The extra material is very interesting also, showing excerpts of Market Square Heroes and He Knows You Know at the Marquee even earlier (and giving a glimpse of their energy in a smaller, closer to the public, environment), plus short interview with Fish at the time.

Conclusion: a masterpiece of progressive music.