"F E A R" (an acronym for "Fuck Everyone and Run") is the eighteenth studio album by the British neo-prog band Marillion, released in 2016. This album continues the band's signature blend of progressive rock elements with introspective lyrics, exploring themes of personal and political significance.
"F E A R" received positive reviews for its ambitious composition and emotional depth, showcasing the band's evolution while staying true to their roots. It features a mix of atmospheric soundscapes and powerful melodies, solidifying Marillion's place in the progressive rock landscape. Fans appreciated its bold title and the thought-provoking nature of the content, making it a notable addition to their discography.
As with many of their recent recordings, Marillion, known for their innovative crowdfunding approach, turned to their fans to finance "F E A R." They launched a pre-order campaign on PledgeMusic on September 1, 2015, which garnered support from fans in 67 countries by October 6. The funds raised allowed them to tour South America in May 2016 and North America in October 2016.
The album was recorded between 2014 and 2016 at their Racket Club Studios in Buckinghamshire and at Peter Gabriel's Real World Studios in Wiltshire. The band revealed the album's title and cover art on April 7, 2016.
Lead singer Steve Hogarth explained the title as a reflection of sadness and resignation rather than anger. He expressed concern about a world increasingly characterized by a “every man for himself” mentality. Hogarth noted a sense of foreboding throughout the album, touching on themes of political, financial, humanitarian, and environmental turmoil. He hoped his fears about the future were misguided, adding a layer of depth and introspection to the album's content.
