Clutching at Straws

Clutching at Straws

Cover art for the album "Clutching at Straws" by Marillion.

Clutching at Straws is the fourth studio album by the British rock band Marillion, released in 1987. It is considered one of the band's most successful and critically acclaimed albums. The album explores themes of addiction, disillusionment, and the pressures of fame.

Background

After the success of their previous album, Misplaced Childhood, Marillion faced high expectations from both fans and critics. However, the band was dealing with internal conflicts and the personal struggles of lead singer Fish, which heavily influenced the lyrical content of Clutching at Straws.

Musical Style

Clutching at Straws showcases Marillion's signature blend of progressive rock and neo-progressive elements. The album features complex song structures, atmospheric soundscapes, and emotive lyrics. The band's musicianship is highlighted throughout, with Steve Rothery's melodic guitar solos and Mark Kelly's atmospheric keyboard work.

Track Listing

The album consists of ten tracks:

1. "Hotel Hobbies"
2. "Warm Wet Circles"
3. "That Time of the Night (The Short Straw)"
4. "Going Under"
5. "Just for the Record"
6. "White Russian"
7. "Incommunicado"
8. "Torch Song"
9. "Slàinte Mhath"
10. "Sugar Mice"

Reception

Clutching at Straws received positive reviews from music critics upon its release. It was praised for its lyrical depth, musical complexity, and emotional impact. The album reached number two on the UK Albums Chart and spawned several successful singles, including "Incommunicado" and "Sugar Mice".

Legacy

Clutching at Straws is often regarded as one of Marillion's finest albums and a classic of the neo-progressive rock genre. It has continued to resonate with fans and has been cited as a major influence by many contemporary rock bands.

See Also

• Marillion
• Progressive Rock
• Neo-progressive rock

External Links

• Official Marillion Website