LESS IS MORE

It's no wonder this record didn't find its' way to everyone's cd stand. After all, it is a collection of songs already recorded and might actually be in another category. However, we made the decision of listing this as a new studio album, as did Marillion themselves, actually. It surely does deserve its' place among other great records.

The record is a compilation of songs from not so popular album, written again to be performed acoustic. We have songs from Anoraknofobia, Marillion.com etc. followed by a brilliant tour which I myself had the privilege to attend in Helsinki. I must admit, that I hadn't heard a lot of these songs before since for some reason there's a fobia among Marillion fans against these mid 90's recordings, and the ratings on this site don't do justice to this band.

The way the songs are presented on the album is brilliant. Some are made into funny, imaginative version, but my personal favorites, like Space and Memory of Water on this album are the kinds you want to listen to in candlelight with a glass of wine, or what ever it is you prefer. This is exactly what me and my girlfriend did the first 5 times in a row that I listened to this record.

Acoustic doesn't necessary mean slow, but Marillion decided to take advantage of it, and you can see it in the song list as well. For example Interior Lulu is missing the explosive ending that it originally has, and it's like listening to a completely different song. Brilliant I say. I feel like I'm repeating myself when I say, if you're looking for a rock album, this is not one. It's not like the guys were growing old, just check out Pete's (Trawavas) projects (Transatlantic, Edison's Children). They just have a great way of capturing the feeling in their songs, and most of these songs sound more mature that they did.

What I'm most impressed of is Steve's singing. He's really sensual, but has a really strong voice. He can really keep a song alive even when the rest of the band isn't even playing. I was surprised to see him giving all he's got. Oh, and the album's not ALL acoustic if you wondered about that. They're cheating a bit with a guitar solo. But I'll allow that.

Oh yeah, and overall, it's a pleasant listen, this one. Having heard it 500 times now and never growing bored. A perfect way of getting to know the less known albums. Had they chosen songs we all knew, it might not be so great. But to me, one of the best definately. I'll give it a four because it's lacking nothing, but not five because stars get handed out too easily, and I still expect the new one to be better (and there's no 6-stars option).

Share this MARILLION review

Social review comments () BETA

---

---

Review related links

• Send comments to Passionist
• Report this review (#631775)
• Buy MARILLION music online with PA partners
• Show all MARILLION MP3/Stream
• Go to MARILLION page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to Less Is More page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for MARILLION related discussions