AN HOUR BEFORE IT'S DARK

This is the 20th studio album from Prog mainstays Marillion, but their first since F.E.A.R. in 2016. I have to admit that although I was a fan of the early days of Marillion (with vocalist Fish) in the '80's, I haven't really followed the band through the Steve Hogarth years, so was not very familiar with what the band has done in recent years. This album pushes forward presenting commentary on all the pressing issues of the day with an immersive sound and dark and moody atmosphere. But this album also offers a bit more hope than some of their previous ones, with very emotional and stirring lyrics and music. The album features four suites of songs covering 4 major themes, as well as a couple of standalone songs. Marillion fills the musical spaces with their own version of a wall of sound, as keyboards and synths fill the background creating a dark, flowing, moody atmosphere throughout. The music often reminds me of a somewhat gloomier version of those '80's synth-pop bands like Tears for Fear and Talk Talk. At other times, there are definite similarities to U2, both in the music and emotional heft of the lyrics. There are certainly some powerful sections here and an immersive sound and feel throughout. One of the problems I have with it, however, is that it is a bit too much of that same brooding atmosphere throughout the entire album. And whether they are being somber and sad, rocking out, or being uplifted with a heavenly choir, the tempo barely changes, staying at the same slow mid-tempo pace. There is no question that these guys are very good at what they do, and they create lovely immersive soundscapes and emotionally charged moods. But for me, most of the songs go on a bit too long and without enough differences between the songs. However, the final epic suite, 'Care', is magnificent, and works beautifully, raising the entire album several notches. It starts with a funky beat and vibe reminiscent of Talking Heads and then proceeds through several different sections of ebbs and flows leading up to a magnificent soaring emotional finale. By far the highlight of the album, and possibly a highlight of the band's career, as this one works on all levels. The rest of the album also has some stellar moments, but is just not quite my cup of tea overall. Still, a very good album, Best tracks: 'Care', 'Be Hard on Yourself'. Weaker tracks: 'Reprogram the Gene', 'Murder Machines'. Rating: 3.5