FRONT ROW CLUB ISSUE 7

In an effort to make sure that the insatiable hunger for Marillion's music will be satisfied, the band developed the Front Row Club. For a fee, your membership will ensure that a live CD will be delivered to your home about every 3-4 months. Some are very good; however, some are not so great. The band is compeletely up front about the quality and even brand a rating system to each release. If you feel that a disc doesn't meet your standard of quality or if you just don't care for the setlist, you can opt out without it counting against your membership.

I chose the Lausanne show because it's one of the better shows in terms of energy and quality. As a matter of fact, it's the best show that I have so far. Recorded on the Holidays In Eden tour, Hogarth is in fine form and his voice is very strong. The set list is equally strong, with a all of Holidays representedm and a good chunk of Fish era songs--including "Incommunicado", "Kayleigh", and "Garden Party".

The disc opens with "Splintering Heart", which is not only a great song, but a great concert opener. It's addressed with energy and passion. Another great moment is how the end of "Dry Land" blends seamlessly into "King Of Sunset Town" from Seasons End.

A rarity comes on disc 2 with a performance of "Lords Of The Backstage/Blind Curve" from the Fish era's Misplaced Childhood. I've never had a problem with Hogarth covering Fish material, as I believe he does it justice and handles it respectfully, while applying his own style to it (I almost prefer the way Hogarth sings "Warm Wet Circles/That Time Of The Night over Fish...although it's not on this disc).

There is also a slight unplugged section towards the end of disc 1 with "Holloway Girl" from Seasons End, and the beautiful (and somewhat disturbing) "A Collection". Hogarth doesn't hold back his range on "Holloway Girl", as he completely soars during the chorus.

I could've easily applied 4 stars to this, but kept it at 3 because the disc isn't available in stores and you have to plunk down money for a membership. Pretty much for the Marillion die hards, but well worth it.