MADE AGAIN

Marillion are a phenomenal band for starters. Everything about this band just clicks with me--outstanding musicianship, thoughtful and introspective lyrics, a varitable potpourri of elements in their music, and a great lead vocalist. I like Fish era Marillion; however, I thought Hogarth brought something fresh to this band...and that's never more evident than when you hear them live.

Made Again was recorded in Rotterdam, London, and Paris over the Holidays In Eden, Brave, and Afraid Of Sunlight tours. This is a fine live album, but they could've pushed the envelope a bit. The song selection was a little tried and true...especially on disc 1. There are the usuals like "Cover My Eyes (Pain And Heaven", "Easter, and "Afraid Of Sunlight". They should've spiced things up with "The Party", "Gazpacho", or even "The Uninvited Guest". The great thing is this is Marillion in their element. The other great thing is it wasn't dilluted down with overdubs because I have the Front Row Club (where members receive official bootlegs of the show without any tinkering. You get it warts and all) release of the Rotterdam show, and it's spot on. Some overdubs here and there, but not like Marillion's Reel To Reel or KISS Alive (which is basically a studio album).

In a great move, disc 2 is Brave performed in it's entirety in Paris. I've heard more spirited performances of Brave through the FRC and on DVD; but, it's freakin' Brave! It's an otherwise great performance and Hogarth sounds great on both. The crowd was pretty into it on this particular night, as well. Hogarth can't even introduce the last song, "Made Again" because of the wave of applause and emphatic screams.

I think this is essential for any Marillion fan. I've got a lot of live Marillion on CD and DVD and there are better ones out there. With that said, however, putting this on is like getting a visit from a good friend. In either case, you're left smiling. Somewhere between 4.25 and 4.5 stars.