It may just help to come from a prog upbringing to fully appreciate to work and, work rate of Grammy-nominated writer, producer and Porcupine Tree & Blackfield mainstay Steven Wilson. The man 'to go to' for some quality remastering on old prog classics (his work includes Jethro Tull, Yes & King Crimson to name just three) has now released his forth solo album, the stunningly good 'Hand.Cannot.Erase' and is heading out on tour this month as well.
Follow up to 'The Raven That Refused to Sing' the new album raises the bar even further. To deliver a progressive Rock influenced album that sounds as fresh as this record does is no mean feat. Songs varying in length from two minutes to thirteen all knit together very nicely and with CD, Audiophile vinyl and Blu-ray versions of the release available, we are all covered sonically as well.
Don't get hung up on any progressive tags though, the record is inspired by the real-life story of Joyce Carol Vincent, who lay dead in her apartment for nearly three years before being discovered. It contains thoughtful song writing on its musical journey. There are plenty of changes in direction, style and pace, with a quality of musicianship that cannot be faulted.
This guy should be selling out Arenas, let's just be thankful that he is playing the larger theatres this time around.
Pete
10/11
1. First Regret
2. 3 Years Older
3. Hand Cannot Erase
4. Perfect Life
5. Routine
6. Home Invasion
7. Regret
8. Transience
9. Ancestral
10. Happy Returns
11. Ascendant Here On