Review Summary: Proving that their music is progressive in the most literal of senses, Porcupine Tree release the album that put them at the forefront of the British rock scene.
Although Porcupine Tree need relatively little introduction today, in 1999 they were simply known as an obscure psychedelic act that followed in the footsteps of previous artists, particularly Pink Floyd. While this earlier phase of the band certainly showed promise, it was somewhat hampered by lazy song writing which often caused the songs to drift into aimless psychedelic passages that went nowhere. This changed with “Stupid Dream” however, as Steven Wilson and his newly cemented band emerged with what is perhaps the most concise and creative set of songs of their careers.
Right out of the starting gate, the most apparent difference between this and prior works is the immediacy and overall heaviness of the music. In fact, “Even Less” manages to capture everything that this band is about. With its soaring melody, ambient soundscapes, and a touch of heavy metal riffage (not to mention Steven Wilson’s remarkably beautiful and passionate vocal performance), “Even Less” manages to do the impossible and sound both epic and intimate at the same time.
Blending intimate and accessible song writing with more adventurous ambient passages is something at which this album excels. See, for example, the beautiful and accessible verse – chorus approach of “Don’t Hate Me” which bookends that song’s stylish and hypnotic middle section. Or perhaps one prefers to gravitate towards the psychedelic breakdown in “A Smart Kid.” On the other hand, tracks like “Piano Lessons” and “Stranger by the Minute” deliver and concise and intelligent pop punch. With its autobiographical lyrics and infectious hooks, “Piano Lessons” should have (in a fair world at least) been a top ten hit. Meanwhile, “Stranger by the Minute” manages to emulate the best of early Radiohead by conveying a subtle sense of confidence under the guise of easy listening.
While Porcupine Tree made a solid career out of blending intelligent prog-rock with pop accessibility, “Stupid Dream” was the first time that the band managed to perfectly pay tribute to its influences while also looking towards the future. While other great albums have followed, “Stupid Dream” remains an excellent spring-board to the band’s work while giving older fans plenty to enjoy and re-discover.
