AFRAID OF SUNLIGHT

An album that proves Marillion don't necessarily have to produce long songs to be brilliant. None of the songs here top 8 minutes, but the album as a whole has a collective feel of progression, and the end result is truly epic! Obviously this record often lives in the shadow of its predecessor, Brave, and whilst their 1994 effort is probably the stronger of the two, at least to me who prefers the band's darker edge, it is a true testament to the band's abilities that they could knock out such a great record just one year later.

'Gazpacho' is a strong opener, driven by Marillion's trademark dark but melodic sound. 'Cannibal Surf Babe' is a strange song, but none the less wonderful for its bizarre lyrics and Beach Boys riffing. This is the sound of a band having fun, and with truly catchy results. Although frequently dividing fans, it received a great reception on the recent pre-Christmas tour. 'Out of This World' sees a wonderfully passionate solo courtesy of Steve Rothery, whilst the title track builds to a magically capturing crescendo.

Overall though, this is an album to be listened to as a whole, not broken down into tracks. It works like one long theme progressing over 8 tracks, not a single note out of place, and all band members on top form. Definitely in my personal top 5!