THE RAVEN THAT REFUSED TO SING (AND OTHER STORIES)

I continue to be amazed by the claims that Steven Wilson is a genius. This latest offering, I had been led to believe would blow me away with epic music of the highest order. I quite like what is on offer and it has improved after repeated listens. The quality of music is impressive even though chaotic jazz sounds make me want to switch off. I enjoy "Luminol" after the first 4mins or so unlike other reviewers, "Drive home" is pleasant, I quite enjoy "Pindrop" which would sit well as a porcupine tree track, "The watchmaker" has some fine and also annoying moments and the title track is well crafted and emotional. The "Holy drinker" could have been an interesting track but has too many annoying moments. On the whole I am pleased that I own this CD but I am not sure how many listens it will take before it becomes tired in my ears. I will give this 4 stars for many reasons and believe it is a worthwhile listen but I still feel that it is a case of the emperors new clothes. As a birthday present I also received psychanorexia by "t" and I have been drawn towards this epic on a more regular basis.