ANESTHETIZE

Everything I said about "Arriving Somewhere..." applies here. But I must add a couple quick comments. First, the sound is more balanced, cleaner, and a little less bass heavy (sadly, as I like a good, thick punchy - but not muddy - bass). Second, Anesthetize is MUCH better visually. None of that artsy fartsy visual crap that IMHO was overdone in "Arriving Somewhere..." Also, the song choice is a bit better (to me anyway).

Anesthetize may not be the best starting point for a newbie looking to see what Porcupine Tree is about. It starts out quite heavy with Open Car and Blackest Eyes. That might be just enough to scare the faint of heart away before the band has a chance to show their variety. This is a band that changes its style every few albums. Even this DVD does not really give a full representation of their wide range.

HOWEVER...

If you are even a casual fan of the band and do not have this DVD, put you mind at ease, put aside your doubts, dig out your credit card and just be done with it. It is a musical treat from start to finish. This is a band of consummate musicians who love their craft. The music is heavy, delicate, dark, and often beautiful. At the risk of sounding pretentious it takes more than one listen to appreciate the subtlety amidst the heavy sounds coming at you from your speakers.