Progarchives, the progressive rock ultimate discography
Fish - Sunsets On Empire CD (album) cover

SUNSETS ON EMPIRE

Fish

 

Neo-Prog

3.81 | 270 ratings

From Progarchives.com, the ultimate progressive rock music website

ZowieZiggy
Prog Reviewer
3 stars It is always a pleasure to listen to a Fish album.

The opener sets the tone : this album will be harder than usual. Still some pleasant narration part and mellotron are tempering this orientation. But most of this good opener has a hard attack, no doubt.

"Goldfish & Clowns" has a genuine "Marillion" mood which is really pleasant to (re) discover. "Fugazzi" (the album) fans, this song is for you. This harder evolution could also be felt in this album and it is wonderfully transported into Fish's solo repertoire. Two lengthy and successful tracks to open this album is rather encouraging.

The next couple of songs are not of the same caliber. The light pop-oriented "Change Of Heart" can not really hold the comparison. A bit naïve. And "What Colour Is God" is too screaming IMO. As if Fish is trying to cover all the instruments with his voice. Heavy/funky style has never been my fave.

A more ambient song as "Tara" is more than welcome. The subtlety of the great man is back. I far much prefer him while his vocals are more delicate, charming than shouting. And this good melodic track is a perfect showcase for this. Fish can express all of his emotions in this ballad. The pleasant violin play is also responsible for a favourable opinion about this good song.

Another crowd favourite is "Brother 52". Another powerful song with a great keyboard play, very prominent. But what's catchy here, is the chorus line. Especially while played live. Lyrics are very pessimist and related to some dramas that occurred in the US (Oklahoma and Waco affairs).

Another highlight of this good album is the title track. Powerful but sweet at the same time (yes, it is possible). Backing vocals are very effective (similar to some great ones on Floyd's work). It should have been the closing number.

Three stars for this good "Fish" album.

ZowieZiggy | 3/5 |

MEMBERS LOGIN ZONE

As a registered member (register here if not), you can post rating/reviews (& edit later), comments reviews and submit new albums.

You are not logged, please complete authentication before continuing (use forum credentials).

Forum user
Forum password

Share this FISH review

Social review comments () BETA







Review related links

Copyright Prog Archives, All rights reserved. | Legal Notice | Privacy Policy | Advertise | RSS + syndications

Other sites in the MAC network: JazzMusicArchives.com — jazz music reviews and archives | MetalMusicArchives.com — metal music reviews and archives

Donate monthly and keep PA fast-loading and ad-free forever.