The Thieving Magpie cover

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • immersive storytelling through soundscapes
  • patient build-ups rewarding deep listening
  • sweeping melodies for reflective moments
  • engaging narratives for attentive sessions

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek standalone singles experience

Where this album fits

Career 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.
Stylistic neighbors
Genesis· Yes· Porcupine Tree

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 6:03
  • 9 Fugazi 8:39
  • 10 Script for a Jester’s Tear 8:45
  • 11 Incommunicado 5:23
  • 12 White Russian 6:14

Disc 2

  • 1 Pseudo Silk Kimono 2:19
  • 2 Kayleigh 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