AFRAID OF SUNLIGHT

This must be the most soporific Marillion Mark II so far. I was almost desperate while listening / reviewing "Brave", but with this album, I guess that the worse has been achieved. The same boring tone is omni-present. I have never understood how a guy like Hogarth was appointed as lead singer to replace Fish. He is so insipid, emotionless, voiceless : you name it.

Some of their earlier work was saved by the bonus CD available in the remastered version, but needless to say that this won't be the case here. Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz... all the way through. If ever you need pills to get asleep, play this one : it will be better for your health and cheaper on the long run.

You can make your own choice while listening to this "work" : the absolutely sleepy ones like "Gazpacho", both "Afraid" ones etc. You can opt for the pseudo rocking and useless one like "Cannibal surfbabe" as well to get some diversification...

In this maelstroem of insignificant songs, I am glad to have been able to discover "Beautiful". This is indeed a wonderful song. Full of subtlety and with a great melody. But it is really the only bearable number of this set. You'll be quickly reverted to the most dull experience with "Afraid Of Sunrise". Zzzzzzzzzzz. The same sleeping mood prevails during the title track. Has Marillion Mark II discovered the ultimate sleeping fashion ? If so, they are very, very effective. "Beyond You" only adds another sleepy chunk to your experience.

All those tracks seem to be part of the same one. Zzzzzzzzzzzz.

Actually, I am the only one to be blamed. When I started my review process on PA some months ago, I decided to browse almost the entire catalogue of the bands I wanted to review. This meant serious headaches, believe me. It is far much complicated to go through the whole repertoire of some bands (you name it) than picking up some of their greatest achievements.

From time to time, it is rewarding, because here and there a jewel will still come out ("Rajaz" for Camel, "Somewhere To Elsewhere" for Kansas, "Keys To Ascension I" from Yes to name a few). But Marillion Mark II, seems hopeless (but who knows...).

"King" will not change my mind. IMHHO (in my humble and HONEST opinion) this is the weakest Marillion Mark II album so far. One star.

The bonus CD could not save the album this time. Sorry guys, but you did record this, not me.

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