What makes Assassing by Marillion notable?

The single 'Assassing' reached number 22 on the UK Singles Chart, marking a significant commercial achievement for the band. This album helped define the sound of neo-prog in the 1980s and influenced numerous bands in the genre with its ambitious compositions and lyrical depth. Released on April 30, 1984, 'Assassing' was Marillion's second studio album, following their successful debut 'Script for a Jester's Tear.' At this point in their career, they were solidifying their place in the neo-progressive rock scene, attracting a growing following while exploring more complex musical themes and lyrical narratives.

How many songs are on Assassing?

Assassing has 2 tracks, running approximately 12 minutes.

Assassing

Marillion · 1984

12 min · 2 tracks · progressive rock

A fusion of intricate melodies and theatrical storytelling, underpinned by lush instrumentation and emotive vocals.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Assassing — The title track showcases the band's signature blend of art rock and progressive elements, featuring dynamic shifts in tempo and mood that encapsulate their innovative sound.
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Cinderella Search — This track highlights Marillion's knack for narrative-driven songwriting and melodic intricacy, embodying the thematic richness present throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong composition and craft, contributing to its distinct sound within neo-progressive rock.

What we noticed

Vocals are delivered with theatrical flair, often intertwining with the instrumental sections to enhance the storytelling aspect.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Defined Marillion's sound and helped them gain wider recognition in the neo-prog scene.
Themes: political disillusionment· narrative complexity· post-punk introspection
Career context: Released on April 30, 1984, 'Assassing' was Marillion's second studio album, following their successful debut 'Script for a Jester's Tear.' At this point in their career, they were solidifying their place in the neo-progressive rock scene, attracting a growing following while exploring more complex musical themes and lyrical narratives.
Stylistic neighbors: Genesis· Yes· Porcupine Tree

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Assassing

The narrative shifts from a third-person perspective to an introspective examination of personal conflict and moral ambiguity.

This structural choice deepens the listener's connection to the themes of identity and self-reflection woven throughout the song.