Steven Wilson – Grace For Drowning

Once again, Steven Wilson (Porcupine Tree, Blackfield, no-​man…) graces us with yet another masterpiece. Grace for Drowning, a timeless piece of art and creativity, is Steven Wilson’s second solo release.
The album, like all SW albums, has a concept, although this one is not as straightforward as others. The album title refers to the peace one feels after a long struggle to keep from going under. What else in life is like this? Well SW explores those areas on each gem, building up to a crescendo that slowly spirals back to earth like a drifting leaf.
On a first impression, the album appears less structured and more eclectic than usual, even for Wilson, but beautiful and very appealing on an instinctive, emotional level.
In terms of style, Grace for Drowning fuses the jazz-​influences of early progressive rock with neo-​romantic choir arrangements. I love the variety of instruments used on this record, and the guest musicians are just fantastic. Well, what would you expect from the likes of Steve Hackett, Nick Beggs, Tony Levin, Nic France and Theo Travis?
Even the artwork by Lasse Hoile is brilliant, and I think GFD was the most challenging project for Lasse so far. And of course, he did a wonderful job, as usual.
The record demands persistence and a little work from the listener and may not be easily accessible to each and every Wilson fan, but it is worth the while. I personally thought it made the most sense when juxtaposed to Opeth’s Heritage.
This album is a future classic, and it’s certainly a grower that deserves some serious treatment. Greatness does not even begin to describe how well put together and what pure genius this album is.