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.
Why this album works
- Best for
- wave-like emotional highs and lows introspective lyrics for deep reflection dynamic journey with melodic peaks
- 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.
- If you like
- progressive rock, art rock, neo-prog
- If this clicks, go next to
- Seasons End — Continues the melodic and atmospheric style with fresh themes post-Clutching.
Clutching at Straws is an album by Marillion, released in 1987. Melodic progressive rock intertwines with introspective lyrics, creating an atmospheric and emotional listening experience. 'Clutching at Straws' reached number 2 on the UK Albums Chart and received critical acclaim for its lyrical depth and musicality. It is often regarded as a landmark album in the progressive rock scene of the late 1980s, influencing a range of artists in subsequent years. Additionally, the album's themes of desperation and loss resonated deeply with fans, contributing to its enduring legacy in Marillion's catalog. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Clutching at Straws sound like?
Melodic progressive rock intertwines with introspective lyrics, creating an atmospheric and emotional listening experience. Rooted in progressive rock and art rock. Start with "Hotel Hobbies".
Is Clutching at Straws a good place to start with Marillion?
Yes, Clutching at Straws is recommended as a starting point for new Marillion listeners. Melodic progressive rock intertwines with introspective lyrics, creating an atmospheric and emotional listening experience. 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.
Who is Clutching at Straws for?
Clutching at Straws works well if you're into wave-like emotional highs and lows, introspective lyrics for deep reflection and dynamic journey with melodic peaks.
How many songs are on Clutching at Straws?
Clutching at Straws has 11 tracks, running approximately 52 minutes.
Tracklist
New here? Start with Hotel Hobbies.
- 1 Hotel Hobbies Start here 3:35
- 2 Warm Wet Circles Standout 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 Standout 5:16
- 8 Torch Song 4:05
- 9 Slàinte Mhath 4:44
- 10 Sugar Mice Standout 5:46
- 11 The Last Straw / Happy Ending 5:58
Release Date
June 22, 1987
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
52 min 18 sec
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