The Thieving Magpie
Marillion · 1988
112 min · 22 tracks · progressive rock · art rock · neo-prog
A sweeping blend of progressive rock and artful storytelling, anchored by lush melodies and intricate arrangements.
Why this album works
'The Thieving Magpie' is significant for its critical reception, achieving notable chart success in the UK, where it peaked at number 4. The album serves as a testament to Marillion's influence on the neo-progressive rock movement, solidifying their status as key players in the genre during the late 1980s.
- Best for
- dynamic journey with emotional peaks immersive storytelling through soundscapes patient build-ups rewarding deep listening
- Context
- Released on November 29, 1988, 'The Thieving Magpie' was a pivotal live album for Marillion, following their commercial peak with 'Misplaced Childhood' in 1985. This album captures the band during a transitional phase, showcasing their evolution as they embraced more complex compositions and theatrical performance elements.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Intro – La gazza ladra 2:45
- 2 Slàinte Mhath 4:49
- 3 He Knows You Know 5:12
- 4 Chelsea Monday 8:00
- 5 Freaks 4:06
- 6 Jigsaw 6:24
- 7 Punch & Judy 3:23
- 8 Sugar Mice Standout 6:03
- 9 Fugazi 8:39
- 10 Script for a Jester’s Tear Standout 8:45
- 11 Incommunicado 5:23
- 12 White Russian 6:14
Disc 2
- 1 Pseudo Silk Kimono 2:19
- 2 Kayleigh Standout 3:52
- 3 Lavender 2:27
- 4 Bitter Suite 7:38
- 5 Heart of Lothian 5:12
- 6 Waterhole (Expresso Bongo) 2:16
- 7 Lords of the Backstage 6:07
- 8 Blind Curve 5:34
- 9 Childhoods End? 2:48
- 10 White Feather 4:22
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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