"Marbles" is a music album by British rock band Marillion, released in 2004. Composed of 15 tracks across two discs in the retail version, it's considered one of the band's most acclaimed works. The album was notably released independently on Marillion’s own imprint, Intact Records, a testament to the creative freedom and control that the band wanted to maintain over their music.
Recorded and produced at The Racket Club in Buckinghamshire, England, "Marbles" showcases a blend of progressive rock, pop-rock and art-rock influences. The album explores a variety of themes and emotions, from introspective moods to energetic rock anthems. It includes popular tracks like "You're Gone", which reached No. 7 on the UK Singles Chart, and "Don't Hurt Yourself" that also charted successfully.
"Marbles" surrounds a core suite of songs (tracks bearing the name "Marbles" I to IV) dispersed throughout the album to give the impression of a concept album, though the band maintains it's not truly a concept album per se.
A ‘deluxe campaign edition’ of the "Marbles" album was also pre-released to those who pre-ordered before a certain date, which made participation in the development and recording of the album possible, revealing Marillion's fan-engaging tactics well before crowdfunding became widespread.
Marillion, active since 1979, is known for their emotional storytelling and unique blend of music styles, with "Marbles" considered one of their standout works.
