The King Of Sunset Town
Marillion · Official Bootleg Box Set 2 [2010]
A puppet king on the 4th of June
And butterflies from all around
Settled on his paper crown
A pretty sight it seemed to be
An avenue of eternal peace
But he said, "What is here can soon burn down..."
"I'm the king of sunset town"
Watch a big wheel turning round
Some go up and some go down
Some go thirsty some just drown
"That's the law round here"
Said the king of sunset town
And in the night he comes to me
And the square becomes a battlefield
Of staring eyes that can't explain
The insanity and the greater game
Watch a big wheel turning round
Some go up and some go down
Some go thirsty some just drown
"That's the law round here"
Said the king of sunset town
A ragged man came shuffling through
The corridors of this white place
And as he lay his body down
I saw the scars that lined his face
And injured souls came to his bed
To hear the stories he would tell
Of butterflies and summertimes
And everyone assembled here
Remembers how it used to be
Before the 27th came
This place will never be the same
He said "I'm the king of sunset town"
Watch a big wheel turning round
Some go up and some go down
Some go thirsty some just drown
"That's the law round here"
Said the king of sunset town
The King Of Sunset Town
Marillion's 'The King Of Sunset Town' stands as a defining track within their progressive rock canon, showcasing the band's signature blend of intricate guitar work and soaring vocals. Recorded for the 'Official Bootleg Box Set 2 [2010]', this song exemplifies the group's ability to weave complex musical structures with emotional depth. As a staple of their discography, it reflects the band's evolution from their early synth-pop influences to their later, more atmospheric soundscapes. The track remains a powerful representation of Marillion's commitment to technical proficiency and melodic beauty, resonating with fans who appreciate their unique fusion of classical elements and modern rock sensibilities.