FEAR OF A BLANK PLANET

Sometimes it's difficult to hold an opinion that wildly differs from general consensus. It can get you ostracized, and accused of having an agenda. It can have unforeseen ramifications, personal and otherwise. But is it better to betray your heart and your gut for acceptance?

Not for me. I've been holding off on this review for many months to be sure I was familiar with the album, as to not jump the gun with a hasty write-up.

In an interview with Thrasher Magazine, Steven Wilson states: "We are essentially playing quite simple, melodic music." Wilson continues. "It sounds deceptively complex, but it's actually very simple and very direct. I think where the complexity comes from in Porcupine Tree is very often in the production and the arrangements." I love simple, melodic music with great production. However, this album is overproduced and overly-long. As it stands, it comes across as neither loyal to its simple core, nor the complex progressive masterpiece it aspires to be. In such a confused state, it does not speak to me as anything but something trying to be what it is not, and afraid of what it is. The overall musicianship is extremely tight, and the production is pleasant to the ears, but at the end of the day, I'm left cold and unsatisfied with the overall package. 2 stars.