Originally published by The Birmingham Mail. June 2007.

From the pulsating, atmospheric opening of Splintering Heart to the emotional, heart jerking ending of Easter, a near-capacity audience was treated to a heady mix of songs from Marillion’s new album Somewhere Else and a selection from their extensive back catalogue.

The band treated the audience to a sample of the new album with the tracks The Other Half, Somewhere Else and single Thank You Whoever You Are.

These were deftly intertwined with classic songs such as the sublime Afraid Of Sunlight, You’re Gone and the hauntingly beautiful Fantastic Place.

Vocalist Steve Hogarth was in a jovial mood, teasing the crowd with giant Prisoner-style balloons during Between You And Me before skilfully darkening the mood with the set closer King.

An extended encore included the rarely heard The Release, the wonderful Neverland and the ever-popular Easter.

Marillion remain an immensely entertaining and thought-provoking band to see live.

Ian D. Hall