Closure / Continuation

Album review

This album sees Porcupine Tree make an unexpected return to prog rock. Thirteen long years after their last studio album, the English rock band is back. This comeback had to be seen to be believed, with fans remaining sceptical until the release of their new single, Harridan, in November 2021. This single was accompanied by a statement announcing the upcoming Closure / Continuation. Such a title leaves room for doubt as to whether the band intends to return for good. Is this record the sign of a new beginning? Or will it instead be the band’s last hurrah? In any case, it’s proof that the trio have  still managed to maintain a consistent identity whilst releasing music that’s more geared towards electronic sounds and ethereal ambiences.

They might have decided to tone down the saturation, but they haven’t hung up the guitars either. In fact, Porcupine Tree has developed a sound much closer to the last solo works of their frontman, Steven Wilson. This can be heard on Of the New Day and Walk the Plank, where Richard Barbieri’s keyboard weaves beautiful sonic canvases that only confirm their new direction. These sounds are far from new to the English band, but they’re certainly emphasised on this release. It distances them from the metal-esque riffs of In Absentia (2002) or Fear of a Blank Planet (2007). This sonic evolution is perfectly summed up with the single Harridan, which opens with an incredible bass-drum groove.

Though the band might not go on to venture into pure prog rock, they’re still true innovators and their sonic and atmospheric work makes Closure / Continuation an enthralling album. Though it might not be what fans are expecting, it’ll age like fine wine. © Chief Brody/Qobuz