SOMEWHERE ELSE

After over a decade of exploration in search of the sound of the H-era Marillion experience, it seemed like the band found just their niche with their previous album, "Marbles." I'd be writing an entirely different introduction if their latest album, Somewhere Else, turned out to be a total departure from the sonics of marbles, but it is in fact very similar. There is a slight watery, airy, ethereal tone to the guitars and keyboards on Somewhere Else, as if the band is much more into atmospherics than on an album like Afraid of Sunlight. This continues the trend Marbles set in motion. The mixing is flawless on Somewhere Else as well, accentuating the bright tones of the album and giving it a very summery feel. Whether I'll be in the mood for this kind of feeling in the dead of winter remains to be seen, but I have a feeling Somewhere Else will be a seasonal album in my collection.

Unlike Marbles, however, is Somewhere Else's lack of extended songs. You'll find no "Ocean Cloud," "Neverland," or "Invisible Man" here. We get a poppier, more streamlined selection of songs. Very few songs on Somewhere Else develop over time; most let you know where they're going straight away. The ultimate impression is a cutting back on progressive elements (indulgences?) to create something...more accessible, perhaps. After all, this is the first Marillion album I've seen during a casual browse through the aisles of an unnamed mega-corporate electronics store. For some, this truth may be ugly and unwelcome. For others, the opposite may apply. But let me assure all parties that Somewhere Else is a collection of songs. Very good, distinct songs. Some are more progressive than others, but all have redeeming quality. Is Somewhere Else a disappointment after Marbles? Yes, but greatness is so hard to follow up sometimes. 3.5/5