FEAR OF A BLANK PLANET

I have listened and reviewed many recordings from this band. I have rated most of their studio albums with three stars because I couldn't really be overwhelmed with their music. There were always great songs featured of course, but consistency was lacking and the felling of too much of the same thing prevailed.

Actually, I preferred some live recordings which sounded more interesting in terms of tracklist. Even if they changed from genre during their career, starting with spacey psychedelia to evolve towards a heavier music at no moment I could hardly discern any masterpiece in their production. And it is the same with "Fear..." I'm afraid.

The title track was very promising. In line with a traditional song of theirs. "My Ashes" has a definite feeling of "No Quarter" ("Led Zep") but does not reach the upper level of its ankle. "Anesthetize" seems to come out from "Dream Theater" 's repertoire.

But that's the evolution Wilson wanted to give to the band since his early relationship with "Opeth". Not that it is a bad song, on the contrary. But it lacks of personality. I can reasonably tolerate true prog-metal (which is the case here). When the prog side picks up versus the metal one. Actually, this long song holds a bit of all the styles that "PT" has undergone throughout their prolific career. Some sort of testimonial work. This song won't anesthetize you; that's for sure. I consider it as a highlight.

"Sentimental" is the archetype of an average "PT" song. Can't really blow me away. Soft and mellow, feelingless and boring. Like if Wilson had taken sleeping tablets while composing it. "Way Out Of Here" is much better of course. More energetic and truely heavy as well during the second part. Great riff and guitar play here. But "Fripp" is featured as guest musician...

I am still hesitant in terms of going to their Brussels gig in a few weeks. Maybe that the opening act "Anathema" will give me the extra kick to decide me to go...

This album is much better than "Deadwing". Seven out of ten. Rounded down to three stars.