The Punch And Judy Man

Marillion emerged from the brief progressive rock revival of the early '80s to become an international recording and touring phenomenon who have sold more than 15 million albums and host fan clubs in ten nations. The band helped pioneer the development of fan-funded music and touring support, beginning in 1997. Marillion's music, while remaining on the progressive, artful side of rock, has evolved to embrace post-punk pop, indie and experimental rock, and even funk and electronica. Each album is different than its predecessor.

Never realised the breadth of the "Pop-Sike" genre until I heard Fading Yellow, a really fine compilation that hangs together beautifully as an album. That most of the tracks are obscure isn't surprising: everything is a little odd, a little ramshackle, with a strong melancholic undertow and not a little creepiness. Of course, this music is also specific to a particular time in Western pop music history so there's a strong nostalgic element, but the knowledge this music could never be exactly replicated is what also makes it so fascinating. Recommended, in a warm and loving 60s way.