IN ABSENTIA

This is a CD that has grown interesting to me, after each listening. At first, I was not very much impressed, but I discovered a very specific piece of music here, after repeating putting 'In Absentia' in the CD player. Very complete and interesting descriptions have been posted here, in the last years, and I don't intend analysing each track in detail, because a lot has been reported, with acurate delivering. In fact, I have a hard time deciding between 4 and 5... It is sure a super addition to a prog collection, but is it a masterpiece ?

What I like and that's the originality, is that it is kind of heavy, but only by moments. The former CD's of Wilson have been more psychedelic or space-like-Floyd ambiance. And I went more for a score of around 3, meaning 'good' CD's, but not approaching this one's quality. The hard sound is easy to accept (I prefer symphonic, and here it is much different, sure not bad though), and the rest is beautifully done, where each and every track adds something technically and musically 'top-notch'. It is out of common place that such a CD is well recognized as a superb addition to a prog collection, and that it does not include a strong 'epic' !! I feel it is in a class by itself, because of the 'prog-related' music and (maybe) because of concept type of album Wilson has created.

There is emotion, spirit, an atmosphere that goes along with the concept of life's different days of living. It transpires well. There are different moods but always focused around the main concept. Some tracks hit you directly with power and amazing originality together. A very good album; I figure it is the best of PT ! A score of 4.5 would be quite reflecting my feeling of it. It is good each time, which is a remarquable quality. (The score of 5 is supposed to be for exceptions... This one just barely misses)