I'll also mention that PT are a pretty diverse band that have gone through different eras and styles. They started out as basically a psychedelic rock/prog band heavily influenced by Pink Floyd. Then they took on some more alternative rock/prog influences (especially Marillion) and started writing more straight-forward (but heavily atmospheric and textured) songs. When Steven Wilson befriended Mikael Akerfeldt from Opeth their music then took on a lot metal influences. Their more recent music is something of a mix of all these influences. So depending on what era you're listening to PT can sound radically different. This track seems to be from the Lightbulb Sun era, which I would definitely describe as their most Marillion-esque era, and that's definitely what this track reminds me of. I think the other tracks you've heard are from their later stuff.
It's worth mentioning that the studio version of the song repeats the starting section you thought was "eerie" at the end for quite a bit, with some extended bass play. It also features expanded layers of vocal harmony. I think both of these features emphasize the things you thought were strengths in the song. You're also right the lyrics are a big focus, and the song is very much built to support the narrative. I want to compliment that you dig a bit deeper into the song than most react RU-vidrs, actually criticizing the construction of the song instead of just talking about its vibes.
Love this band, saw this show in Cincinnati just a few days before this. One of the best shows I've ever seen! Please check out the live DVD " Meet The Flower Kings". You'll be glad you did.
This wasn't what you expected and you didn't get it. I watched this 3 days ago and still can't get it out of my head. Huge PT fan and I've heard the song many times. PT grows on you.
Man, live performances? Damn it. Acid rain by Liquid Tension Experiment Ayreon, Everything really. Just pick whatever you like haha! Porcupine tree are able to elevate their live performances so much tho. Good choice.
This doesn't capture the tension you get from the studio version. No upright bass, vocal harmonies aren't really there, the dirty drum solo is just gone, and the guitar solo isn't as good either. This is still good. I love this song but this version sounds so watered down to me.
I thought I'd heard everything from PT but I didn't know this track. Turns out it's from a compilation of b-sides and unreleased tracks that I haven't heard, so I'll definitely be checking out that soon. As for this song it's definitely PT their moody, Marillion-esque mode. I wouldn't rate it among their better songs, perhaps because it's just too understated. The phrase "musical wallpaper" is too harsh for how I feel, but that's similar to the vibe I'm getting. I do think many of the textures were quite pretty, but nothing really wowed me. The highlight here is really (no surprise) Gavin's drumming. It's just so tasty and tasteful and it keeps things interesting.
Well, to each his own. I cant stand someone like LaBries vocals but really like Steven Wilsons. He's a great singer with loads of emotions, melody and taste. No vocal acrobatics, thank god.
I'm not the biggest fan of his voice and I do think PT and his solo work would be better with a more dynamic vocalist, but the music's usually so good I usually don't mind. I actually think songs like this are where it hurts the most because without a more powerful vocalist not much else in the music sticks out, but there's plenty of PT songs where the music carries it just fine.
