LIGHTBULB SUN

Some breakup albums are about as enjoyable as a breakup. This is not one of those albums. Steven Wilson continues his evolution from DIY space rock guru to major label signee, taking on more modern influences and coming up with his third straight classic. Like his best work, each song is a unique piece of work, whether its the minimal piano and harmony vocals of "How is Your Life Today," the string laden acoustic anthem "Rest Will Flow," or the heavy jamming of "Russia on Ice." Miles away from the trippy non-sequitors of Stupid Dream, the lyrics are direct and emotional on this release. My favorite moment is "Where We Would Be" with the universal disapointment of "strange how we never become/the person you see when you're young" juxtaposed with a noise guitar feedback freakout, all on a soft bed of twelve string acoustic guitar. "Last Chance to Evacuate Planet Earth" is another gem, with a pastoral wistful love song segued into a recording of a cult leader's sick monologue. Who needs a relationship when you can turn the messy breakup into a lasting work of art that gets you a major label contract. Not Steve Wilson.