The first Marillion track I heard was 'Hooks In You', and I haven't heard anything since to rival it. Yes, there's some listenable-to Prog Rock on this album, which undoubtably was ground-breaking at its time, but it's background washy music really. I wouldn't bother.
PLEASE NOTE: HAVING LISTENED TO THIS ALBUM MORE I AM INCLINED TO PRAISE IT MORE! IT REALLY IS ONE TO LISTEN TO CAREFULLY A FEW TIMES BEFORE YOU BEGIN TO APPRECIATE IT. AND IT HELPS NOT TO LISTEN TO IT AS CLASSIC ROCK BUT VERY MUCH AS PROG. ROCK OF ITS ERA.
This album is now available on a 2 disc remastered version and that is the version I am judging my review mark on.The original 1 disc version is an absolute classic and gets 5stars from me without fail,this 2 disc version is not needed in my view as the single disc said all there needed to be said about the jester. Disc 1 is the original album and disc 2 is made up of remixes and 12 inch b-sides that are good but not needed the most noteworthy track being the brilliant Market square heroes.Listen I dont want to put you off from buying this but if you have a choice go for the single disc its much more of an album and you can progress to the double disc at alter stage-Rock on!!