Steven Wilson might not be the household name his talents indicate he should be but on the UK music scene his name is legendary. Both his solo output from his debut in 2008 with ‘Insurgentes’ and his work with Porcupine Tree are revered amongst his fanbase. His music has blended a plethora of genres, hard to define by one genre. His latest ‘The Overview’ sees him make a welcome return, his eighth solo effort it is a full length LP broken up into two sizable tracks – ‘Objects Outlive Us’ and ‘The Overview’. The first part comes in at 23 minutes and the second 18 minutes. Not dissimilar to Miles Davis’ ‘In A Silent Way’ structurally.
The first part of ‘Objects Outlive Us’ is calm and meditative, incorporating elements of classical music, soft piano and ambient effects circling before it gradually expands. It definitely draws on the progressive rock that perhaps best defines Wilson’s work. A truly epic way to kickstart the project.
‘The Buddha Of The Modern Age’ the second part is more straightforward built around acoustic guitars and piano. At 57 Wilson’s voice is still in fine fettle. It then becomes a different beast with more traces of electronic music. There is a hypnotic quality to the tracks here and it feels at times in the best way possible like getting lost in Wilson’s imagination.
This feels like a perfect advert for all the style’s Wilson has dabbled into date, showcasing his virtuosity as a musician and chameleonic ability to shift effortlessly between a variety of sounds. While as a whole the tracks are on the lengthy side, there is a rarely a dull moment, natural segway’s between each part that help to break it up and keep the listener engaged. He strikes the perfect balance between softer, more introspective moments with scorching riffs and more out and out progressive sounds.
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‘The Overview’ begins with more of an electronic/trance vibe, a departure from the sounds heard on the first part but a triumph regardless. We are then treated to some masterful guitar riffs and solos that really showcase his talent. There is so much to unpack in one listen with some many beautiful intricacies to get lost in. With each part of the album bringing something unique.
‘The Overview’ is yet another towering achievement for Steven Wilson. At this later stage in his career he shows no signs of slowing down, seeking new ways to innovate. This album is beguiling from start to finish from a true master of the craft, getting lost in his work and making a spellbinding record that fans will pour over and devour. There is no one doing it quite like Steven Wilson.
8/10
Words: Christopher Connor
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