May 1, 2010

Cincinnati played host to one of music’s premiere musician’s bands, Porcupine Tree, Saturday Night at Bogart’s Show Club near the University of Cincinnati. Promoting their latest album, “The Incident”, PT delivered a scorching non-stop 14 song 50+ minute opus, complete with synchronized video and impeccable execution.

Steven Wilson

England’s prog masters are the combination of lead singer/songwriter/guitarist Steven Wilson, along with Colin Edward on bass, Richard Barbieri keyboard and programming, and Gavin Harrison on drums. John “Wes” Wesley is a touring member of PT adding vocal harmony and lead and rhythm guitar.

This writer was impressed and entertained from the start. Just walking into the venue, which has played host to some of the most significant bands of our time, was like stepping back into history. From Marillion to The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bogart’s manages to be a waystation for an incredible variety of artists. Watching the long line of attendees wait to get in, stretching for blocks, it was nice to see that PT is drawing a mix of fans, from high school band geeks to 50-somethings looking for music with meaning. A pro photographer was overheard speaking to security saying ” This band is for musicians. You won’t have much of a problem, they’ll be too busy listening!”

Featuring an ever shifting, flowing line of thought, “The Incident” allows the musicians to fall deep into their music, not trying to wrap up a thought in a short one-off hit. The musical textures and time signatures cycled like a Rubik’s Cube. It was impressive to witness the sold out crowd focus and listen intently through the soft passages of “Time Flies” and then try to hold on to something while the venue was literally brought to life by the insane drumming and bass riffs of Gavin Harrison and Colin Edward on “Circle of Manias”.

Colin Edward

PT took a short break after “The Incident” set, then came back for seven more, including Steve Wilson floating through “Lazarus” with vocal ease, and later the powerful Anesthesize Part 2, “Pills I’m Taking” and “Bonnie the Cat” which features arguably some of the best drumming in modern rock.

Gavin Harrison

They wrapped it with a two song encore, featuring crowd favorites, “Sound of Muzak” and “Trains”.

Steven Wilson and Richard Barbieri

John “Wes” Wesley

A ridiculously talented band, playing for a tremendously grateful bunch of fans combined to create a most memorable experience.

Thanks PT!

All good things PT can be sought and bought at www.porcupinetree.com

Tim Hall is a freelance photographer/writer. timhall2007@gmail.com

2010 Copyright SoRockScene.com All Rights Reserved