Those who have already seen one of the amazing concerts of Mr. Punch, want to see more and more of them without any doubt. Why? Because they perfectly copy the music of Marillion during the period 1983-1988. A period when they were fronted by lead singer Fish. During their performance organised by Serious Music

Alessandro Corvaglia

Alphen they proved it once again. This time around they came with a show which was part of the 'Mr.Punch plays Misplaced Childhood For A Jester's Tear tour'. Well the people who came at the Parkvilla Theater in Alphen aan de Rijn will remember this incredible musical evening for a very long time.

As the title of the tour already indicated, the main part of the songs performed came from the legendary albums Script from A Jester's Tear (1983) and Misplaced Childhood (1985). In fact they did perform all the tracks which you can find on Marillion's debut. Unfortunately not in the same running order as it they are selected on the album. This was however the case with the album on which you can find the band's biggest hit single (Kayleigh). Once again, like I saw them doing it one year ago at the Pul in Uden (see review), they nailed Misplaced Childhood from start until finish in a perfect way. But I guess you can't expect less with a line up of musicians, which can handle their instruments in a perfect way and a singer who impersonates Fish the best way possible!

Marcella Arganese

The first released epic by Marillion, which you can find on the B-side of Market Square Heroes (done as the only encore), was done as well. It was a real pleasure to see the band perform Grendel in a perfect way. Just as they do all of the classic Marillion tunes. Alessandro Corvaglia even wore the famous Grendel helmet. A helmet which wasn't easy to get for the performance of this song as Alessandro told me after the show. A very good looking version of it was spotted on the internet. However after ordering it, it turned out to be a miniature version. The other B-side of Market Square Heroes was on the setlist as well. Namely Three Boat Down From The Candy. A song which I heard them doing for the first time I witnessed their show. Just as I heard this time around for the first time excellent versions of He Knows You Know and The Web.

Those present at the venue probably did not know that the bands first set lasted a bit longer than planned. Because after the songs taken from Marillion´s first album a short intermezzo should have taken place. Probably because of their enthusiasm they did not notice the time and continued with the complete version of Misplaced Childhood. Therefore the break came after White Feather was performed. All this confusion resulted in a second set which was a little bit short. Because after the opener Grendel, they only played the title track of Marillion´s second album. After Fugazi was done, a standing ovation made sure the band returned to the stage for a well deserved encore. Leaving the audience once again speechless in their seats. Just like they do after every performance of this excellent Marillion tribute band.

Hopefully in 2019 the band will come up with a new program of old Marillion songs. I guess it´s time to hear complete album versions of Fugazi (1984) and Clutching At Straws (1987). Don't you think? And I am sure they will do it perfectly. Just as they do with all the Marillion stuff featuring Fish!

Henri Strik (edited by Tracy van Os van den Abeelen)