MISPLACED CHILDHOOD

In my opinion, Misplaced Childhood is Marillion's greatest achievement. The variation of moods between songs and "bright" textures really draw me in, probably more than any other Marillion album.

Fish's imagery is once again amazing on this album, and the themes brought up in the songs can relate more to the listener. Lost love, delusion, deception, revelation, and epiphany are things we've all experienced, and all are found throughout Misplaced Childhood. I believe Fish truly makes a personal connection to the listener with his lyrics.

The music brings to life all of what Fish is conveying with his imagery, from the ominous and chilling synth soundscape of "Pseudo Silk Kimono," to the redemption and clarity of the final song, "White Feather." "Kayleigh," and "Lavender," are upbeat and joyous musically, yet with Fish's lyrics of remorse over love lost, you may be hard pressed to hold back a tear forming in your eye. "Bitter Suite" is brooding and dramatic, with multiple sections and a beautiful piano ending. Soon follow "Waterhole [Expresso Bongo]," a psychedelic and fast-tempo track and the rollicking and festive "Lords of Backstage."

Highlights of Misplaced Childhood are nearly indiscernible, considering that the album manages to stay at such a high point both musically and lyrically. "Heart of Lothian" is Fish's ode to his roots, with the support of an exalting guitar run. "Blind Curve," a multi-part epic, is a desperate and reflective requiem, first exploring the downsides of stardom and then an angered portrayal of violence and war. "Childhood's End?," which follows, gives the impression of a gleam of sunlight through a cloud after a thunderstorm.

The moods of Misplaced Childhood can swing greatly, from heavenly heights to dreary lows, but the end effect is the same. A connection has been made and I can feel every note and lyric as if they were the air I breathe.

Of course Misplaced Childhood is, perhaps more than all other Fish-era Marillion albums, a pop/prog blend. Some tracks were even very modest radio "hits." But that is no matter, this album is brilliant, and deserving of any prog fan's collection.