Review by Paddy Gallagher for MPM
Perched at the more accessible end of the Prog Rock spectrum, labelled by some as Art Rock, The Pineapple Thief release their 16th studio album “Far and Wide” on 9th October.
With influences of Porcupine Tree (note same initials), Radiohead, Riverside and Anathema, they paint a reserved sonic picture, melancholic in places, melodic and atmospheric but short in the grand progressive scheme of song lengths with 9 songs running for 48 minutes; and more straight, indie rock than other albums in their discography. In recent years, time spent on the road and playing progressively bigger stages seems to have resulted in clearly defined and incisive music as the bond between musicians strengthened.
Kicking off with “New World Order” we hear an intricate drum pattern from master of his trade Gavin Harrison (there’s that Porcupine Tree connection again) who is accompanied by an imaginative, distinctive bass line from John Sykes.
“Hold the Ashes” starts with more of a pulsating bass line before a hypnotic guitar from vocalist / guitarist / main man Bruce Soord adds texture. “Still Living” slows the tempo with a piano accompanied vocal line culminating in tasteful, atmospheric guitar and softly sung lyrics.
“God Knows” kicks things up a gear again with a chugging guitar, one of the heaviest guitar parts on the album, (ain’t no shredding here folks), accompanied with soft atmospheric keys from Steve Kitch.
Definite Radiohead vibes radiate from “This Empty Space” and……ohh what a tasteful guitar solo. “Scattering Like Flies” builds steadily towards its midpoint and with “Through the Noise” the guitars evoke aural visions of David Gilmour.
“Who Wants It” is almost mainstream radio airplay friendly in its feels and takes us to the final track, the longest on the album clocking in at 7 minutes and 16 seconds, “No Exceptions”. An emotional vocal line, piano accompanied before those Floydesque guitars drips feeling from the fretboard where every note oozes a caressing aura until the 5-minute mark erupts a screaming guitar solo before calm is restored.
All in this is a subtlety paced album, indeed conjuring an air of calming atmospheres for a relaxing evening paired with considerably talented musicianship and songwriting.
Excellent production results in crisply heard instruments all providing the foundations for gently emotive vocals culminating in a strong release which sits most absolutely at the upper end of their discography league table.
Pre-order: https://thepineapplethief.lnk.to/FarAndWide-Album
he Pineapple Thief online:
https://www.pineapplethief.com/
https://www.facebook.com/thepineapplethief
https://www.instagram.com/thepineapplethief
