"Misplaced Childhood" is the third studio album by British neo-prog band Marillion, released in 1985. It stands out as a concept album that draws inspiration from the childhood experiences of Marillion's lead singer, Fish, particularly influenced by a fleeting encounter while under the influence of LSD.
Recorded at Hansa Tonstudio in Berlin during the spring of 1985, the album was produced by Chris Kimsey, renowned for his work with the Rolling Stones. "Misplaced Childhood" quickly became Marillion's most commercially successful album, debuting at number one on the UK charts and maintaining a presence for 41 weeks. It eventually achieved Platinum status, underscoring its enduring popularity.
The album's success was driven by its two standout singles: "Kayleigh", a guitar-driven rock ballad that soared to number two on the UK charts, and "Lavender", characterized by its piano-led melody, which peaked at number five. These tracks solidified Marillion's presence in the British music scene and garnered widespread acclaim.
"Misplaced Childhood" has been recognized in music media as a pivotal album of its time. Kerrang! named it the sixth best album of 1985, while Classic Rock ranked it as the fourth greatest concept album ever in 2003. Its enduring appeal lies in its cohesive narrative structure, musical craftsmanship, and the emotional depth conveyed through Fish's poignant lyrics and powerful vocals.
