Marillion is one of those bands that should be much more popular than they are. Formed in the late 1970’s, Marilion and counterparts Yes, Genesis, and other European progressive bands grew a sound that became wildly popular and that popularity has lasted to the present day. Marillion has not played in Western NY in almost 28 years and their appearance at the Town Ballroom last Thursday was highly anticipated to say the least. A legion of Marillion fans traveled from as far away as New York City, Pittsburgh and Detroit to pack the house to hear their favorite band and they did not disappoint. With no opening act, Marillion took the stage at 8pm and proceeded to electrify the crowd with a 2 1/2 hour show that was a mix of old and new songs.
Opening with El Dorado, a suite of 5 songs from “FEAR,” it was clear the band was here to put on a enthusiastic show. Many in the crowd were singing along to every song. Lead singer Steve Hogarth greeted the audience and laughed, telling stories of their visit to nearby Niagara Falls. The crowd embraced Marillion’s new music just as well as the old. Hogarth has been accepted on his own merit after replacing the legendary Fish as lead singer in 1989.
Marillion is on tour supporting their latest album “FEAR” (Fuck Everyone And Run) and much of the setlist was from the album. “Living in Fear” and “The Leavers” followed and the band stretched their legs with solos that were eagerly received. Hogarth described the the slower tune “Easter” as a tribute to Ireland as a favorite place and sang with unbridled enthusiasm.
“King” closed the show and the crowd would not let them leave. A two song encore of “The Invisible Man” and “This Strange Engine” left the crowd in a frenzied heap of sweaty bodies as the the band exited to thunderous applause. The talk at the meet and greet after the show by many in the crowd was about the next time Marillion would be back in the area. Hogarth smiled and said, “For sure it will not be another 28 years!”
Setlist:
El Dorado: I. Long-Shadowed Sun
El Dorado: II. The Gold
El Dorado III. Demolished Leaves
El Dorado IV. FEAR
El Dorado: V. The Grandchildren of Apes
Living In Fear
Seasons End
The Bell In The Sea
Kayleigh
Wave
Mad
Afraid Of Sunlight
The Leavers: I. Wake Up In Music
The Leavers: II. The Remainers
The Leavers: III. Vapour Trials In The Sky
The Leavers: IV. The Jumble of Days
The Leavers: V. One Tonight
Easter
King
Encore
The Invisible Man
This Strange Engine
We would like to thank Kim Estlund from Kim Estlund PR for the credentials to review the show.
