Featured Artist: Porcupine Tree
Steven Wilson-Vocals, Guitars, Piano, Keyboards, Dulcimer, Bass. Richard Barbieri-Keyboards, Synthesizers. Colin Edwin-Bass. Gavin Harrison-Drums, Percussion.
Porcupine Tree is a UK progressive rock band that has recently and very rapidly become one of my favorites. The project began as a studio experiment in 1987 and developed into a fully complimented band through the dream and under the direction of Steven Wilson. Visit their web site for the complete story! The new Porcupine Tree CD Deadwing (March 2005, Lava Records) is very typical of their material composed in the new century. (Unfortunately I have not had the opportunity yet to go back and listen to their early releases.) A sprinkle of contemporary American rock, a teaspoon of Pink Floyd and a pinch of Ozric Tentacles' psychedelia and that might come close to describing this very unique, very innovative band. Their lyrics can be a bit odd at times, but their music is always fantastic! The title track Deadwing is too long to feature, Shallow is the US single release so I won't step on any toes, therefore I have selected Lazarus, the third track on the CD, for you to enjoy. This song reveals the melodious, softer side of Porcupine Tree.
The Porcupine Tree web site lists an extensive discography and also features some totally awesome wallpaper images.
Local Artist: Sirens
Molly Pauken-Bass, Guitars, Percussion, Vocals. Kay Harris-Vocals, Mandolin, Guitars, Percussion. Jeff Peters-Drums, Percussion. Craig Markley-Keyboards, Synthesizers, Accordion, Flute, Pipes, Whistles, Percussion. Pete Cary-Guitars, Bass, Vocals.
What can I say -- I LOVE these guys!!! It doesn't matter how often I see them perform or listen to their CDs, it's always just as good as the very first time. I am always completely mesmerized and enraptured. Sirens are probably my all-time favorite local group. And I've heard A LOT of groups! The writing talents of Kay and Molly are phenomenal. They are probably one of the best collaborations, if not THE best, in Central Ohio. Possibly in the entire state. Their lyrics and music are timeless, always full of melody and surprises, and what I enjoy so much about them is they take the average events of everyday life and make them magical. You haven't heard anything until you've heard Kay and Mark perform their rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow. It's very honestly the best I've EVER heard short of Judy Garland. (I worship Judy Garland and Somwhere Over the Rainbow is my all-time favorite song.) Sometimes I wish I could sit all night and listen to Kay sing. But I know she gets tired and has to go home. You haven't seen anything until you've seen Molly play bass. Thrilling. She makes you smile and she makes you want to hop around on the stage with her. Jeff Peters. I knew Jeff when he thundered and roared and was a pretty good drummer. He's grown up! He's elevated his playing to a higher plateau. Pete probably has the most unique and interesting guitar style in Columbus. I can't say that I've heard anyone else who plays like him and the style works so well for Sirens. It provides a very different feel for the band rather than having just another guitar tech who rips scales and arpeggios without any depth or emotion. Mark, I swear, he could take a piece broken glass, a string and a button and somehow play them like an instrument! He can play everything. Incredible.
Okay, it's very obvious that I'm very passionate about Sirens. Why? Not only are they phenomenal musicians, but they are very wonderful people. What a difference that makes. They have two CDs under their belt and they know I'm waiting for number THREE! I'm addicted.
She Don't Worry (2003, Harken Music) Sirens (2000, Harken Music)
For your listening pleasure, courtesy of Sirens, I have selected one of my favorite tracks from She Don't Worry entitled Night Falls. I love the night, I love the moon, I love this song.
