Steven Wilson surprises with Permanating, unexpected poperie

Accustomed to convoluted rhythmic structures, complex melodies and concept albums, Steven Wilson lets loose with Permanating. A light and playful single, which gives a glimpse of a wide musical palette for his fourth solo album 'To the Bone', expected for August 18.

The leader of Porcupine Tree denounced in 2002 the musical impoverishment of Pop music in Sound of Muzak. A pique a bit condescending, but whose content we readily accept, when we hear the titanic work that the progressive group does on each of its songs. Still, Permanating, the third and probably last single from Steven Wilson's next album, has nasty hints of easy Pop.

Surprising first notes, for those who know the work of the man. Yet the magic operates, and the joy – communicative – of the sound and visual ensemble manages to make us shake our heads on this tune that is reminiscent of the ABBA group.

An unexpected title, therefore, which augurs a musical spectrum of the broadest on 'To the Bone', to be released on August 18. An album that also promises to be particularly divisive. Steven Wilson confided to Rolling Stone that his artistic vision had become more personal, more selfish. A vision to which it will be up to us to adhere therefore. Besides, the artist will have made exactly the album he wanted, and that is perhaps the most important thing. 

Pierre Crochart