UP THE DOWNSTAIR

What a perfect album for Steven Wilson to debut his full band. All be it on only a few of the tracks but a brilliant glimpse of what was to follow. I can only review based on the re released version complete with Gavin Harrison's superlative drumming and the bonus Staircase Infinities disc. This is without doubt the most played of my entire Porcupine Tree collection. It's not that its any better than the later albums it just has that "magic something" that draws me back time and again to give it a spin. Beautiful atmospheric guitar and keyboard layers and catchy bass grooves. SW is actually pretty handy on the bass. The two discs are notable for some great lyrics by Alan Duffy. I particularly enjoy playing Up The Downstair with its companion Voyage 34 EP. Makes for a very trippy couple of hours listening. Favourite tracks - Always Never,Small Fish / Burning Sky,Fadeaway,The Jokes on You. Easy 5 stars and a must for any Porcupine Tree fan.