Fish-A Feast of Consequences (2013)

After a six-year absence, former Marillion singer Fish returned in 2013 with "A Feast of Consequences", his tenth album, following the brilliant "13th Star". This tenth album was released after Fish himself experienced several traumatic events, such as the end of his marriage and a painful bout of throat cancer from which he would eventually recover. As had happened years earlier, when the Scottish singer was with his original band, and as reflected in the album "Clutching at Straws", his personal struggles have often inspired his most powerful works, and "A Feast of Consequences" is the most palpable example of this. This album showcases a more mature Fish, with sophisticated art rock characterized by grand melodic compositions, ingenious lyricism, and clear British folk influences. The lyrics are socially conscious, addressing topics ranging from the futility of war to political intrigue, all treated with his charismatic insight. While not fully embracing progressive rock, there are glimpses of the avant-garde, such as the enormous suite "High Wood", an epic that incorporates elements of powerful rock, Celtic music, and exuberant symphonic sounds. The epic "Perfume River" is a subtle reflection that contrasts with the sophisticated pop of "All Loved Up", or the sumptuous "Blind To The Beautiful" and "The Other Side of Me", while the evocative "The Great Unraveling" is another highlight of this magnificent album by the towering Scottish singer.