After 12 years, Porcupine Tree makes a comeback with a great album and a new lineup that, far from adding or changing members, subtracted. Now the band consists of a Power Trio led by Steven Wilson (Guitar, keyboards, vocals, and bass), Richard Barbieri (Keyboards and synthesizers), and Gavin Harrison (Drums). In contrast, the band sounds massive thanks to the experience of each member.
Led by Steven Wilson, they return to showcase elite progressive rock. In the midst of 2022, they release “Closure/Continuation,” produced and mixed by themselves, and backed by the label “Music For Nations” which also handles bands like Tool and Killswitch Engage.
What can we hear?
High-end progressive rock; the years have not passed in vain for each of the members who have remained active during Porcupine Tree’s 12-year absence. We hear them mature and collaborative, where Steven Wilson himself has stated that the participation in “Closure/Continuation” is entirely equal among the three members.
It’s impressive to hear that Wilson took on both the guitar and bass solo, as we hear a very complete and elegant work, including intricate figures and riffs, such as the bass intro of “Harridan.” Just thinking about how he can play those figures and sing at the same time makes us consider his high level as a musician. The guitar solos are also exquisite, as well as all the meticulously chosen effects.
The clarity of the instruments makes this work fabulous; we can appreciate the attack of the guitar and bass strings, each piece of Gavin Harrison’s extensive drum kit, and every texture from Barbieri’s synthesizers. Truly, the engineering and production work is a solid 100 out of 100.
The genius of Richard Barbieri
We can hear a series of synthesizers handled by Mr. Barbieri, simply perfect, ranging from sequential to atmospheric. He takes the spotlight when necessary and remains discreet when the song demands it. His programming is exceptional, and his virtuosity lies in the textures that each sound produces.
As for Gavin Harrison, his work on the drums is also magnificent. A musician coming from jazz who has evolved his style towards rock and even metal. The white heads of his drums are entirely distinguishable, as well as the shine of his entire Sonor kit. He handles ghost notes in a very elegant manner, and despite his inclination to improvise over the tracks, his fills never steal the spotlight from the other instruments.
Undoubtedly, the years have been kind to the band, and we dare say that the reduction in the group, without diminishing the work of the missing members, is actually beneficial. There is no sense of longing for the absent members; the current lineup stands strong on its own merits.
One of the best progressive rock albums of 2022
It’s difficult to find faults in this album; we could even say that the timing of its release was ideal, as its production does it complete justice. Furthermore, ‘Closure/Continuation’ reaffirms Steven Wilson as a musical talent, a perfectionist obsessed with details. We could call him the ‘Da Vinci’ of rock.
Have you listened to the album? What did you think? Leave us your comments!
