The Incident cover

The Incident

Porcupine Tree

Album 2009

About this album

Sound: "A sprawling concept album that weaves intricate melodies with heavy riffs and atmospheric passages."

Where they were

Released on September 15, 2009, 'The Incident' marked Porcupine Tree's tenth studio album and is considered a culmination of their progressive sound. Following their acclaimed 2007 album 'Fear of a Blank Planet', this record showcased their innovative approach to songwriting by presenting a continuous piece split into multiple tracks, further solidifying their place in the progressive rock genre.

Why it matters

'The Incident' debuted at number 23 on the UK Albums Chart, reflecting its strong commercial performance. Critics praised it for its ambitious structure and lyrical depth, with publications like Prog Magazine highlighting its significance within the band's discography as a creative peak before their hiatus.

Essential tracks

  • "Time Flies" — With its reflective lyrics and expansive instrumentation, this track encapsulates the album's themes of time and existential contemplation.
  • "The Blind House" — Opening the album with a haunting atmosphere, this song sets the tone for the intricacies explored throughout the project.
  • "I Drive the Hearse" — This emotionally charged closer blends melancholic melodies with profound lyrics, resonating deeply with listeners and providing a powerful ending to the narrative.

Release Date

September 15, 2009

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Occam’s Razor 1:55
  2. 2 The Blind House 5:47
  3. 3 Great Expectations 1:26
  4. 4 Kneel and Disconnect 2:03
  5. 5 Drawing the Line 4:43
  6. 6 The Incident 5:20
  7. 7 Your Unpleasant Family 1:48
  8. 8 The Yellow Windows of the Evening Train 2:00
  9. 9 Time Flies 11:40
  10. 10 Degree Zero of Liberty 1:45
  11. 11 Octane Twisted 5:03
  12. 12 The Séance 2:39
  13. 13 Circle of Manias 2:18
  14. 14 I Drive the Hearse 6:41
  15. 15 Flicker 3:42
  16. 16 Bonnie the Cat 5:45
  17. 17 Black Dahlia 3:40
  18. 18 Remember Me Lover 7:28