MISPLACED CHILDHOOD

Misplaced Childhood was the third step out of four into Marillion's memorable era with Fish as frontman. It's also the less sinister. And while I know I'm not writing about anything new here, I wanted to share my thoughts about this other magical piece.

Being the perfect concept album, Misplaced Childhood cannot be assessed song by song, but only as a superbly coherent ensemble of images and melodies. Thus, none of its songs can be judged legitimately without the whole album context.

Everyone has his favourite parts on Misplaced Childhood. Mines are 'Blue Angel' (the third part of 'Bitter Suite') and 'Blind Curve'. But is there anyone who can forget about that celestial keyboard opening in 'Pseudo Silk Kimono', those disparate but inseparable movements in 'Heart of Lothian', that return to life in the closer 'White Feather', or even those intimate lyrics in 'Kayleigh'?

Misplaced Childhood is not just perfect as a concept album, it's a perfect album period. A benchmark when it comes to progressive music, widely regarded as a milestone in the genre, and for good reason. Many people have come to discover progressive music through this accessible and yet never-gets-old work of art. Indeed, unlike the other three Fish-era albums produced by Marillion, this one shines in the open sun. It grows quickly, whereas the three others, just as good in my view, required more time to fully appreciate.

At the time I am writing this review, Misplaced Childhood is ranked #44 in PA's best albums, something that I, with respect and in my humble opinion, think is nowhere near where it ought to be due to its uniqueness, influence, quality and historical significance. I understand that neo-prog, being stuck between the great classics of the 70's and the younger, more modern and technical-oriented sounds of metal genres since the 90's, faces an uphill battle in this great and wide-ranging community, but for those who are not yet familiar with this genre and who might be looking for something that goes right at the heart instead of the head, Misplaced Childhood might be the best place to start with.

And from the glowing tongues of candles I heard her whisper in my ear

"'J'entends ton coeur"

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