Released 39 years ago this June
Clutching at Straws
Marillion · 1987
52 min · 11 tracks · progressive rock · art rock · neo-prog
Melodic progressive rock intertwines with introspective lyrics, creating an atmospheric and emotional listening experience.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- wave-like emotional highs and lows
- introspective lyrics for deep reflection
- dynamic journey with melodic peaks
- for late-night contemplation
Maybe skip if you want
- seekers of instant gratification
- prefer standalone catchy tracks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album marked a significant commercial success and critical acclaim for the band.
- Themes
- disillusioned escapism· communication breakdown· intimate nostalgia
- Career context
- Released on June 22, 1987, 'Clutching at Straws' was Marillion's fourth studio album and marked a significant moment as it was the last to feature lead singer Fish. The band was experiencing commercial success following their previous albums, especially 'Misplaced Childhood', and this release continued to explore complex themes while solidifying their place in the neo-prog genre. The album's introspective songwriting reflected Fish's personal struggles and would ultimately lead to his departure from the band shortly after its release.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Genesis· Yes· Porcupine Tree
- If this clicks, go next to
- Seasons End — Continues the melodic and atmospheric style with fresh themes post-Clutching.
- Sounds like this from elsewhere
-
Fear of a Blank Planet by Porcupine Tree — Explores themes of disillusionment and introspection with a rich, atmospheric sound palette.Judgement by Anathema — Shares emotional depth and lyrical exploration of personal struggles within a melodic rock framework.Dark Matter by IQ — Combines complex arrangements with introspective lyrics, resonating with the neo-prog aesthetic.
Tracklist
New here? Start with "Hotel Hobbies".
- 1 Hotel Hobbies Start here 3:35
- 2 Warm Wet Circles 4:25
- 3 That Time of the Night (The Short Straw) 6:00
- 4 Going Under 2:47
- 5 Just for the Record 3:09
- 6 White Russian 6:27
- 7 Incommunicado 5:16
- 8 Torch Song 4:05
- 9 Slàinte Mhath 4:44
- 10 Sugar Mice 5:46
- 11 The Last Straw / Happy Ending 5:58
What to play next
This album is considered a Breakthrough in Marillion's catalog. This album marked a significant commercial success and critical acclaim for the band.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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