The Margin cover

The Margin

Peter Hammill

134 min · 21 tracks · rock music

A rich tapestry of avant-garde rock interwoven with poetic lyricism and experimental soundscapes.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • immersive long-form listening experience
  • poetic introspection and depth
  • cathartic emotional exploration
  • thought-provoking lyrical narratives
  • late-night contemplative engagement

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer short, upbeat tracks
  • seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1976, 'The Margin' marked Peter Hammill's continued exploration of complex themes following his breakthrough with Van der Graaf Generator. At this point in his career, he was already known for his distinctive voice and profound lyrics, further solidifying his solo identity after the band's peak years.

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

  • 1 The Future Now 3:49
  • 2 Porton Down 5:41
  • 3 Stranger Still 6:23
  • 4 Sign 6:38
  • 5 The Jargon King 3:18
  • 6 Empress's Clothes 5:51
  • 7 The Sphinx in the Face 5:16
  • 8 Labour of Love 5:50
  • 9 Sitting Targets 5:42
  • 10 Patient 7:31
  • 11 Flight 20:32

Disc 2

  • 1 The Second Hand 6:03
  • 2 My Experience 4:13
  • 3 Paradox Drive 4:18
  • 4 Modern 7:40
  • 5 Film Noir 5:06
  • 6 The Great Experiment 5:47
  • 7 Happy Hour 9:46
  • 8 Central Hotel 5:01
  • 9 Again 4:24
  • 10 If I Could 5:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata