FUGAZI

After "Script for a Jester's Tears," their debut album, Marillion carried the expectation to confirm whether their excellent initial work was the beginning of the story of a new band with solid roots or simply a short-lived flash in the pan. And to add an extra twist, there were contrasting views due to the clear similarities in Fish's singing style, reminiscent of Peter Gabriel during his Genesis days.

In the midst of this situation, they released "Fugazi," an album that dispelled doubts and reaffirmed that the band had arrived to forge their own path. Their proposition drew elements from the past but added freshness and unique nuances, breathing new life into the genre and becoming one of the main representatives of the emerging neo-prog movement.

"Fugazi" had to confront, like most rock productions, the rapid emergence of musical trends at that time, such as pop and new wave, which adds even more value to it. Thus, we discover songs that have become anthems for the band, like "Assassing" (which shares a striking resemblance to the introduction of Peter Gabriel's "Talk to Me" from the album "US"), the deep and rhythmic slow-burner "Incubus," the dark and at times schizophrenic "Fugazi," and the despairing "Jigsaw," the gem of the album. In "Jigsaw," just like "Sugar Mice" from "Clutching at Straws," Fish sets the perfect tone, while Rothery captivates us with a beautiful, clean, and wonderfully sustained guitar solo.

A must-listen. "Fugazi," one of the four albums where Fish was part of the band, left an indelible mark and helped solidify the second life of progressive rock, positioning Marillion as one of its main players.

3.5 stars