marillion.com

Album overview

Marillion's album "marillion.com," released in 1999, represents a pivotal moment in the band's evolution and the wider progressive rock genre. This album, released under the label Intact Records, showcases Marillion's transition into a more modern sound while maintaining their distinctive musical identity. The recording sessions took place at The Racket Club, the band's own studio, allowing for a creative and intimate environment. The album features a blend of rock and pop elements, with a notable emphasis on electronic influences, reflecting the changing musical landscape of the late '90s. The album includes tracks like "Deserve," "Built-in Bastard Radar," and "When I Meet God," which exemplify the band's lyrical depth and melodic sensibility. "marillion.com" marks the first studio album after the departure of long-time producer Mike Hunter, with the band taking a more hands-on approach to production. Collaborators on the album include keyboardist Mark Kelly and guitarist Steve Rothery, both of whom contributed to the rich soundscapes that define the album. The lead single "Deserve" received significant airplay and showcased the band's ability to craft catchy yet thought-provoking songs. Culturally, "marillion.com" is significant as it represents Marillion's adaptation to a rapidly changing music industry, particularly in terms of how they engaged with their fanbase through the internet, a novel concept at the time. The album's artwork and title reflect this digital engagement, further solidifying its relevance in the context of the band's career.

Review

"marillion.com" is an ambitious project that merges the band's progressive rock roots with contemporary sounds. The album's production is slick, with polished instrumentation that complements the introspective lyrics often delivered by lead singer Steve Hogarth. The songs explore themes of society, identity, and spirituality, which resonate deeply in today’s world. While tracks like "When I Meet God" delve into existential questions, others like "Built-in Bastard Radar" offer a critique of modern life with a sardonic edge. Musically, the album showcases a variety of styles, from the atmospheric and ethereal to the more upbeat and rhythmic, creating a diverse listening experience. The band’s willingness to experiment with electronic elements adds a fresh layer to their sound, making the album feel both timeless and modern. However, some fans of their earlier work may find the departure from their traditional sound a bit jarring.

Highlights

• Innovative blend of rock and electronic influences.
• Thought-provoking lyrics that address contemporary themes.
• Strong production quality and musicianship throughout the album.

Weak points

• Deviation from traditional progressive rock sound may alienate some fans.
• Some tracks may feel overly polished, lacking raw emotional intensity.
• Not all songs achieve the same level of impact, leading to uneven pacing.

Overall evaluation

"marillion.com" is a bold statement from Marillion, demonstrating their ability to evolve while still engaging with profound themes. Despite some criticisms regarding its departure from classic progressive rock, the album successfully captures the spirit of its time and showcases the band's versatility. Personal rating: 7.5/10 ```