John Helmer has written several lyrics for Marillion since Fish left. He
already write some lyrics before Hogarth joined the band. Hogarth writes
many lyrics as well, but John Helmer is always around to help out (which
is why Hogy has referred to him as "John Helper" ;). Most of the lyrics
to Seasons End were written by John Helmer.

The following info is supplied by Jonathan, a friend of John Helmer:

John Helmer did his degree (in English I think) at Sussex University at the
same time he played in a band in Brighton the "Piranhas" - he was a
guitarist/vocalist/songwriter.  They had a hit with "Tom Hark" then JH left
to form 'Pookiesnackenburger' with Nick Dwyer, who was from another
Brighton band "Nicky and the dots". This band had a sort of rock comedy TV
series and did a Heineken ad for tv, playing the trashcans (as you would
say in the US, dustbins over here). Nick is now in Stomp and John, of
course writes lyrics.  I was introducing John to the Internet after
watching 'The Lambrettas' and thought, having had a few beers, that I ought
to add something.  I have no news of future lyrics or Marillion events but
John is trying to get his first novel published.

 - Jonathan

Some parts © 2009 Advameg, Inc.