Comic 225
Back-up Vocal~ Here, at last, we find Tully in what he would have the world believe is his “natural habitat”. The world of meditation. At scattered points in the Mannyacs journey, we have seen a few of the characters engaging in their approach to the practice. Or at least as close as I can get to drawing it in any respectable fashion. Their end result body pose always seems to be some sort of warped marriage of Yoga, Tai Chi, and the crane kick from the “Karate Kid” films. Executed completely wrong, which I suspect goes some way towards explaining why genuine peace of mind remains such an elusive little critter to them all. Still, Tully has been saddled with the unenviable task of taking Manny’s concept album and turning it into a masterpiece that makes compelling sense. So, I can’t say I blame him for latching on to spiritual pathways for guidance. Truth be told, Manny never gave me even the slightest dust particle of a hint of direction for this most recent story. Yet, I think that’s still infinitely more intel than he ever offered Tully.
Longtime readers will know that in Mannyacs, we love to pay tribute to our heroes. Thus, Tully would righfully reach out to the energies of the architects who have shaped the sonic landscapes he admires most. The knod to Quincy Jones has become a staple for our Yoga Boy. Hat tips to Nile Rodgers, Eddie Offord (no website) and Jeff Lynne are absolutely crucial, too. The last few years have seen Deluxe Re-Mastered releases of several Marillion classics. They not only sound angelic but also feature documentaries on album creation. It was natural and essential to offer the Shout-Out to Chris Kimsey, Dave Meegan and more recent genius, Michael Hunter, for all that they have contributed to the Marillion legacy. Tully looking to these three visionaries, in particular, speaks not only to his recognition of their talents but also to his own aspirations towards such a caliber of craftsmanship. Whether or not he could ever achieve it himself.
I’m old enough to remember when the first Enigma record was new. Lordy, that puppy was all the rage on the radio, MTV, and VH1. It spawned hit songs that quickly earned a place in classes for dance and aerobics, as well as guided meditation instruction in libraries and community centers. A truly fantastic production. I give that release every last drop of its propers, no question. But, I opine that the second album, “The Cross of Changes”, is even better. Dark, dreamy, and demanding, it’s packed to the gills with dynamics and even a touch of grit. I’m still fascinated by it to this day. So, sending some love to Michael Cretu for his works was a must for myself and my guys via this Comic. Respect.