"Seasons End" is a significant album in Marillion's discography, released in 1989. Marking the first studio effort with current lead vocalist Steve Hogarth after the departure of former frontman Fish in late 1988, the album represents a pivotal shift in the band's sound and direction.
"Seasons End" achieved commercial success, reaching number 7 on the UK Albums Chart. The album features a mix of introspective lyrics and atmospheric instrumentation, showcasing Hogarth's unique vocal style while retaining the band's progressive rock roots. Notable tracks include "Easter" and "Hooks in You," which highlight the band's ability to blend melodic elements with their characteristic complexity. This album laid the groundwork for Marillion's evolution in the years that followed, cementing Hogarth's role within the band.
Following Fish's departure, Marillion undertook a significant transition by auditioning new vocalists while concurrently writing what would become "Seasons End." Ultimately, they chose Steve Hogarth, although most of the music for the album had been composed prior to his joining. Hogarth contributed to the writing of only a couple of tracks, notably "Easter" and "The Space," while many of the lyrics were penned by John Helmer, who the band had engaged before Hogarth came on board. Helmer would continue to provide lyrics for the band throughout the 1990s.
Interestingly, "The Space" includes elements from an unreleased song called "Wrapped in the Flag" by Hogarth's former band, How We Live. Additionally, the 1999 reissue of Clutching at Straws features early versions of songs that would appear on Seasons End, with Fish’s vocals and lyrics. These demos were part of the writing process for the album that ultimately did not materialize with Fish, with some lyrical themes resurfacing in Fish's solo work.
The album was produced collaboratively by Marillion and Nick Davis, who would later work with bands like Genesis. Recording took place at Outside Studios in Hook End Manor, Oxfordshire, starting on April 28, 1989, marking a new chapter for the band as they embraced Hogarth's fresh perspective while maintaining their progressive rock roots.
