JakeDaSnake : 19/20 | I learned about Porcupine Tree through Opeth, because of the keyboardist doing work for both bands, and each group being close to the other. They’re a progressive metal band from the greater area of London, and have so far come out with about 9 full releases. They have been known as progressive rock as well, because of their interesting sound, which kind of crossed back and forth in my opinion. Fear of a Blank Planet was the first album I’ve heard by them, and I was definitely impressed by it.
A defining feature of this album is its lyrics and eerie theme. The lyrics are actually very interesting (surprisingly) and discuss many taboo subjects of the modern age, like drugs, pornography, death, and romance, among others. It fits along with the whole theme of the record and represents very well. As for the music, its whole sound is very relaxing a lot of the time, and really puts images into your head and feeds you alternative emotions as you listen to it, which is exactly what makes music truly great in the first place. I also gotta hand it to the bassist, he definitely knows how to make a great groove and be creative with the directions he takes in his notes, which seems to be a rare quality in bassists nowadays, as most bassists I’ve heard in modern rock just follow a simple 4/4 beat pattern, and rarely stray from that. I also enjoy how this album really likes to add a neo-jazzy feel to their music, which really brings out a lot more of the creativity you find in many progressive metal or rock bands. Also, this album wouldn't be as good without the keyboards, which develop great melodies in songs such as My Ashes and Way Out of Here (The most popular track off the album).
Personally, I think that this album is brilliantly played out, tightly timed, and has the best of qualities that makes music very interesting. I’d have to give this album an 19/20.
2011-02-18 01:30:54
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