METANOIA

The band were clearly so worried about the impact this album would have on their growing reputation that the sticker on the front of the CD reads "File under self indulgent". The intention is clearly to warn new found followers of the band that the music on this album is not compatible with any expectations they may have, based on albums such as "Lightbulb sun" and "Stupid dream".

That warning is well placed and should be heeded, as this album is not for those seeking strong melodies and tight arrangements. Originally released as a limited (1000 copies) edition double LP intended for diehard fans only, "Metanoia" is made up of material which Porcupine Tree did not feel was appropriate for inclusion on the "Signify" album. Two further tracks from the same sessions have been added to the widely available CD version.

The music here is entirely improvisational, devoid of the tight melodies and detailed production which is now a feature of a Porcupine Tree album. By and large it features Steve Wilson on lead guitar, supported by the remaining band members. Chris Maitland takes the opportunity to place his drums well forward in the mix, to the extent that with a little effort on the part of the listener, this could be heard as a 60 minute drums solo!

The track lengths are not outrageously indulgent, the longest being around 14 minutes. Some of the content would be tightened up and included on "Signify", the titles here such as "Coma divine" and "Intermediate Jesus" offering clues as to the destination.

This is not an album to be taken too seriously, and should certainly not be considered a part of the main discography of Porcupine Tree. As a piece of background music it is adequate, but perhaps a little too intrusive. As such, this is not really a fans only set, as many fans will not find the album particularly appealing. More perhaps for collectors interested in hearing what the band do in their spare time!

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