Porcupine Tree - In Absentia (UK release January 13, 2003)
Porcupine Tree - In Absentia (UK release January 13, 2003)
As far as I'm concerned, Porcupine Tree are one of those bands that just keep getting better and better - certainly the release of this, their most recent studio recording, did nothing to disuade me of that when it emerged belatedly in the UK just over a year ago. You don't expect a Porcupine Tree album to follow exactly the same formula as the last one, and this is certainly no exception, with it's harder, heavier edge. All the prescribed qualities are there in abundance, though - creativity and proficiency well to the fore.
Definitely one of those albums with no weak tracks, so singling anything out for a mention is difficult, but I'm currently obsessing over the enchantingly melancholy "Heartattack in a Layby" and the tense "The Creator Has a Mastertape". Excellent lyrics abound, but a special mention must go to the words "Train set and match" kicking off the track "Trains" - just fine by me.