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What do you think of when you first hear the words Porcupine Tree? Probably a porcupine on a tree, but what if I told you that it is the name of a band so underrated it almost feels criminal.
I’ve been an avid fan of Porcupine Tree for nearly six years. The best comparison to Porcupine Tree that I could make is a modern-day Pink Floyd. There’s almost a musical evolution similar in the sound of their music.
With that being said. Here’s why you should listen to them and the songs I think are best if you’re a new listener.
To start, I personally think it’s a unique experience. The first time I discovered Porcupine Tree it was a sight to behold. The first album I discovered was “Lightbulb Sun,” which is the album I would recommend to most people and share with my friends who I believe would be interested.
There’s also never a dull moment with their music. Just when you think you’ve heard it all, a song you’ve never listened to before or taken the time to fully enjoy plays and you’re hooked again.
Two songs I think really show this aspect of the music well are “Dark Matter” from their album “Signify” and “Glass Arm Shattering.” Both are album closers that showcase all the elements that make Porcupine Tree unique.
Lastly, their live albums are arguably the best of the band. I will admit, I was never much of a concert guy until I heard the band’s live music. The live album “Anesthetize” has an excellent version of “Dark Matter,” that showcases a new side of the song.
If you’re convinced by now to give them a listen, you might be wondering where to start.
Well I’ve got two paths one might want to go down. If you’re a fan of lighter music I suggest starting with the “Lightbulb Sun” album. If you’re a fan of heavier music, I suggest the album “Fear of a Blank Planet.” If you want something that blends the deluxe edition, “In Absentia” has a mix of both heavy and light music and can even get you started down the rabbit hole that is Porcupine Tree.
If you want individual songs to listen to, a few I would suggest are the songs “Lightbulb Sun” and “In Formaldehyde” from the album “Recordings.” If you’re a Pink Floyd fan I’d lean you towards “Glass Arm Shattering” or “Time Flies,” which reminds me of the song “Dogs” from the Pink Floyd album “Animals.” If you want some more recent then “Love in the Past Tense” might be the song for you
If you’re a live music fan I recommend “Arriving Somewhere but Not Here” and “Hatesong” from the live album “Arriving Somewhere.” If you want something a little more rare, then the performance of “A Smart Kid” is available on YouTube.
There are endless possibilities if you decide to listen to Porcupine Tree, which is a testament to their ever-evolving nature as a band.
Stone O’Bryant is a columnist. Contact him at [email protected].