DEADWING

From 'On The Sunday of Life...' to 'Deadwing', there definetly have been some significant changes. But who is to say change isn't bad? Ofcourse this album is not as progressive as the previous works of Porcupine Tree. But that is no reason to deny giving this album a shot, unless you only listen to one genre, and that genre is prog. The Cd opens up with the amazing title track, 'Deadwing'. The song sets the mood for the whole album in one piece, changing in various parts, becoming heavy and melodic. Shallow is the typical rock song, reminiscent of 'Blackest Eyes'. Following up is 'Lazarus', a ballad that is questionably one of Porcupine Tree's most intimate, soothing songs. It's been put next to 'Trains' as far as it's sweetest and melody goes. Following is 'Halo', which seems to be the least liked track on 'Deadwing'. Now, I would agree, as it is not my favorite song. However, I do still like this song a great deal. It is not so much of alternative as many say. It has the simplicity of 'Four Chords That Made A Million' and 'Shesmovedon', yet the dark effects of 'The Creator Has The Mastertape' and 'Strip the Soul'. Still a good track. Thus, it is followed up by one of, if not the, best track on the Cd. I instantly fell in love with 'Arriving Somewhere (But Not Here)' for it's initial mood. It breaks every boundary of music, flowing every mood and emotion into one feeling within a 12-minute period. 'Mellotron Scratch' is another softer track, but the overdrive will come on again from time to time. And there is a small section towards the end that reminds me of 'Russia On Ice' with the small drum fills. 'Open Car' in my opinion was one of the most powerful tracks on the Cd. Between the lyrics, and the vocals in the chorus, the song will once again drag you through different emotions. And it is not your typical song, having an off-beat timing throughout the verse. 'The Start of Something Beautiful' mixes all the great elements of Porcupine Tree together. It includes the great synth, pianos, clean guitars. The time scheme of the song reminds me a bit of 'Sound of Muzak', while it says in a mood that is more towards 'Last Chance to Evacuate Planet Earth Before It Is Recycled'. And the last song is yet again a great epic, with 'Glass Arm Shattering'. Steven Wilson harmonizes with himself in classic PT fashion, and ends this great Cd with a track in which you can get lost in the music. Overall, I dont think it is their best piece. But I dont believe this is a must have if you like Porcupine Tree. Not if you are a prog fan, or if you like alternative, or metal. If you like Porcupine Tree's music, and if you appreciate their talent of songwriting and ability, then this combination should not let you down, regardless of what genre is slapped onto it.

Social review comments

Review related links

• Send comments to
• Report this review (#34362)
• Buy PORCUPINE TREE music online with PA partners
• Show all PORCUPINE TREE MP3/Stream
• Go to PORCUPINE TREE page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to Deadwing page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for PORCUPINE TREE related discussions