Merchants of Light cover

Merchants of Light

Big Big Train · 2018

136 min · 16 tracks · progressive rock

A lush tapestry of orchestral arrangements and intricate melodies unfolds throughout this expansive progressive rock journey.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic progression with peaks
  • immersive orchestral soundscapes
  • patient unfolding of themes
  • thoughtful listening during solitude
  • rich storytelling through melodies

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek short, standalone songs

Where this album fits

Career context
In 2018, Big Big Train released 'Merchants of Light' as their first album since the critically acclaimed 'Grimspound' in 2017, marking a continuation of their artistic exploration. The band had solidified their lineup and sound, moving further into complex storytelling and rich musical landscapes that defined their recent works.
Stylistic neighbors
Transatlantic· The Flower Kings· Marillion

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Folklore Overture 2:22
  • 2 Folklore 8:25
  • 3 Brave Captain 11:59
  • 4 Last Train 6:37
  • 5 London Plane 10:43
  • 6 Meadowland 3:45
  • 7 A Mead Hall in Winter 15:28

Disc 2

  • 1 Experimental Gentlemen, Part Two 6:02
  • 2 Swan Hunter 6:55
  • 3 Judas Unrepentant 7:29
  • 4 The Transit of Venus Across the Sun 7:47
  • 5 East Coast Racer 16:04
  • 6 Telling the Bees 5:41
  • 7 Victorian Brickwork 13:45
  • 8 Drums and Brass 5:06
  • 9 Wassail 7:55

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata