Porcupine Tree's debut is really one big in-joke, which actually makes for a better reason to record something that pretends to be profoundly deep through and through. As released, it doesn't make mention of the tracks' origins as the supposed product of a mysterious cult psych/prog rock band, but the packaging and artwork (even the fonts) would make the Dukes of Stratosphear proud. Steven Wilson's singing is noticeably higher at points than it would be in later years -- chalk it up to his relative youth or a desire to ...
Read More
Porcupine Tree's debut is really one big in-joke, which actually makes for a better reason to record something that pretends to be profoundly deep through and through. As released, it doesn't make mention of the tracks' origins as the supposed product of a mysterious cult psych/prog rock band, but the packaging and artwork (even the fonts) would make the Dukes of Stratosphear proud. Steven Wilson's singing is noticeably higher at points than it would be in later years -- chalk it up to his relative youth or a desire to sound appropriately wispy (or on the lovely "Nine Cats," like David Gilmour). On a sheer technical level, though, Wilson can't be beat. Recording and producing his material solo (outside of a couple of guest appearances) before the big '90s revolution in home recording quality, he easily reaches the depth and reach of bands who could spend many times more to reach the same sound. It really does sound like a full band jamming along to its own muse, not a constructed swathe of overdubs. Happily, it's not just ability on display, but actual art. There's plenty of shaggy-dog nutty humor -- "Jupiter Island" takes a perfectly groovy trip to said locale circa 1968, phased guitars and all, while the giddy goof "Linton Samuel Dawson" gleefully portrays a cool dude tripping through life and time just to "Escape...from the boredom of mankind." Then there's the spoken word whispering on "Space Transmission," which sounds like something Robert Calvert might have dreamed up on a particularly bad trip, or the very knowing Beatles lyrics quote on the über-trippy "Footprints." Meanwhile, the many instrumental pieces are simply wonderful, pastoral, ambient rambles, drum solo jams, and more. It may all be '70s-era Pink Floyd for a more knowing time, but as a genre exercise and on its own, On the Sunday of Life is still a great debut. ~ Ned Raggett, Rovi
Read Less
Add this copy of On the Sunday of Life to cart. $3.99, good condition, Sold by Book Alley rated 4.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Pasadena, CA, UNITED STATES, published 2004 by Snapper Classics UK.
Add this copy of On the Sunday of Life to cart. $4.11, good condition, Sold by Goodwill of Orange County rated 5.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Santa Ana, CA, UNITED STATES, published 2004 by Snapper.
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Good. This item has very light surface scratches that do not affect the use of the disc/s. This is a USED item. Case and cover may or may not have wear or damage. All items unless otherwise noted will include disc, case, and artwork. Codes have been used. Other contents such as booklets may vary, please inquire for details. All items ship Monday-Friday within 2-3 business days.
Add this copy of On the Sunday of Life to cart. $4.79, very good condition, Sold by Half Price Books Inc rated 4.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Dallas, TX, UNITED STATES, published 2009 by Kscope.
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. Providing great media since 1972. All used discs are inspected and guaranteed. Cases may show some wear. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
Add this copy of Sunday of Life to cart. $9.85, very good condition, Sold by HPB-Diamond rated 4.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Dallas, TX, UNITED STATES, published 2000 by Delerium Records.
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. Providing great media since 1972. All used discs are inspected and guaranteed. Cases may show some wear. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!