Description
Steven Wilson – The Raven That Refused To Sing And Other Stories – Double Vinyl Record
The Raven That Refused to Sing (And Other Stories) is the third solo studio album by British musician Steven Wilson, released on February 25, 2013. Known for his work as the frontman of the progressive rock band Porcupine Tree, Steven Wilson has also established a successful solo career characterized by his blend of progressive rock, art rock, and intricate, atmospheric compositions. This album is often regarded as one of his finest works, both musically and conceptually, and is a staple in the modern progressive rock genre.
Steven Wilson is widely recognized for his contributions to progressive rock, both as a musician and as a producer. His work with Porcupine Tree, as well as his collaborations with artists like Opeth and King Crimson, has earned him a reputation as a leading figure in the genre.
The Raven That Refused to Sing (And Other Stories) is a concept album that tells six separate stories, each inspired by supernatural or eerie tales. The album was recorded with a band of highly skilled musicians, including Guthrie Govan on guitar, Marco Minnemann on drums, Nick Beggs on bass and Chapman Stick, Adam Holzman on keyboards, and Theo Travis on woodwinds. The album was produced by Wilson and engineered by the legendary Alan Parsons, known for his work on Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon.”
The album is known for its elaborate compositions, rich in detail and emotional depth. Each track tells its own story, with lyrics and music that create vivid, often haunting atmospheres.
“Luminol” – The opening track is a dynamic, 12-minute piece that combines intricate bass lines, shifting time signatures, and powerful melodies. It tells the story of a man who continues his daily routine after death, unaware that he has passed away. The track is a showcase of the band’s technical prowess and Wilson’s knack for complex arrangements.
“Drive Home” – A more melancholic and melodic track, “Drive Home” tells the story of a man haunted by the loss of a loved one in a car accident. The emotional guitar solo by Guthrie Govan is a highlight, adding a profound sense of sorrow and reflection to the song.
“The Holy Drinker” – This track is a dark, jazzy piece with a story about a man who challenges the Devil to a drinking contest, only to face dire consequences. The song’s complex structure and shifting moods are reminiscent of classic progressive rock, blending eerie atmospheres with moments of intense energy.
“The Pin Drop” – A shorter, more direct track, “The Pin Drop” tells the story of a troubled marriage and a tragic ending. The song is characterized by its tension and haunting melodies, with a sense of impending doom that permeates the music.
“The Watchmaker” – This 11-minute epic tells the story of a watchmaker who murders his wife, only to be haunted by her ghost. The track features delicate acoustic passages, intricate arrangements, and a powerful climax, blending beauty and darkness in a way that is quintessentially Wilson.
“The Raven That Refused to Sing” – The title track closes the album with a haunting, piano-led ballad about an elderly man longing for the spirit of his deceased sister to return in the form of a raven. The song is deeply emotional, with a sparse arrangement that allows Wilson’s vocals and the poignant story to take center stage.
The Raven That Refused to Sing (And Other Stories) is thematically rich, exploring loss, death, the supernatural, and the human condition through its six stories. Each track is like a short film, with Wilson’s lyrics and music creating vivid, narrative-driven experiences. The album’s production, handled with the expertise of Alan Parsons, enhances its atmospheric quality, making it one of Wilson’s most immersive works.
The album is also significant for its musicianship. The band assembled for this project is comprised of some of the most talented musicians in the progressive rock scene, and their performances are both technically impressive and emotionally resonant.
The Raven That Refused to Sing (And Other Stories) was met with critical acclaim upon its release. It was praised for its composition, musicianship, and the emotional depth of its storytelling. The album has since been considered a modern progressive rock classic, often cited as one of Steven Wilson’s best works.
For fans of progressive rock and anyone interested in music that combines technical excellence with deep emotional and conceptual content, “The Raven That Refused to Sing” is an essential listen. It stands as a testament to Steven Wilson’s abilities as a songwriter, musician, and storyteller, and continues to be a touchstone in his solo career.
180 Gram Vinyl
This vinyl edition of the album is pressed on black 180 gram vinyl and is packaged in a gatefold sleeve with printed inners.
Steven Wilson
The Raven that Refused to Sing
(and Other Stories)
2LP 180gm HEAVYWEIGHT VINYL EDITION
The new album from the Grammy-nominated
writer, producer, & Porcupine Tree founder
member.
Engineered by Alan Parsons.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Luminol
Drive Home
The Holy Drinker
The Pin Drop
The Watchmaker
The Raven That Refused To Sing
