Progressive Palaver

Topographic Topics – June 2026 Rarely does a single episode pack in Rush's triumphant return, the latest release from Prog cornerstone Yes, a sprawling Devin Townsend epic, and a children's book about stage fright, but here we are. Joe and Paul dive deep into Rush's recent Los Angeles concerts featuring new drummer Annika Niles, whose Neil Peart-honoring performances have sent social media into a frenzy. The early doubters, it turns out, had nothing to worry about. Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson made exactly the right call, and the band's preparation of approximately 38 different songs across shows reflects genuine care for their fans' emotional journey. (Front-row Toronto seats hitting $31,000 on the secondary market is genuinely staggering, though.) Thoughtfully, the guys also cover Yes's newly released album Aurora, praising Steve Howe's acoustic contributions while noting the overpolished orchestration feels a little too pristine. What does it mean when a band's music becomes so effortless it loses its grit? Paul also walks through Devin Townsend's decade-long "The Moth" project, recommending tracks like "Covered by Causes" as entry points into its massive scope. The episode closes with warm celebration of Tom Corkran’s children's book launching July 4th at spooksters.rocks. Tune in for a conversation that covers progressive rock from every angle imaginable. BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

Episode 180 – Porcupine Tree Part 11, Fear of a Blank Planet Rarely does an album get called a band's *true apex* when the world has already crowned a different record their masterpiece. That tension sits at the heart of this conversation about Porcupine Tree's "Fear of a Blank Planet," and it makes for a genuinely compelling listen. From the moment we dig into Steven Wilson's guitar work and Richard Barbieri's carefully balanced keyboard contributions, the passion is infectious. The album's conceptual depth draws heavily from Brett Easton Ellis's 2005 novel "Lunar Park," and the title itself nods to Public Enemy's "Fear of a Black Planet," reframing the conversation around youth mental health rather than race. Because Wilson toured the material before recording it, the result feels more cohesive and band-driven, a collaborative sound that stands distinctly apart from his earlier solo-dominated vision. The analysis goes deep. The 17-minute "Anesthetize" features a guest solo from Alex Lifeson (yes, that Alex Lifeson), and Gavin Harrison's rhythmic illusions in "Sentimental" get a thorough and entertaining breakdown. What does it mean when a song still feels unsettling after multiple listens? Genuinely, this conversation rewards patient listening, much like the album itself. BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

Episode 179 – Porcupine Tree Part 10, Deadwing The Palaver returns with an exhaustive exploration of Porcupine Tree's eighth studio album, Deadwing (2005). The group dissects this often-overlooked masterpiece, often unfairly shadowed between In Absentia and Fear of the Blank Planet. The episode opens with fascinating context: Stephen Wilson's recent remix projects on Frankie Goes to Hollywood and Tears for Fears' catalog, revealing his meticulous technical process. But the focus shifts to Deadwing—a concept album rooted in an unreleased horror screenplay, featuring contributions from Adrian Belew (King Crimson) and Mikael Åkerfeldt. The hosts analyze standout tracks including the rhythmically complex *"Start of Something Beautiful"* (featuring Gavin Harrison's intricate syncopation) and *"Open Car," which may be the album's standout moment. Drop-D tuning chords, keyboard textures as dynamic shifters, and Deadwing's bridge between In Absentia's rawness and Wilson's later solo ambitions. Listen now on your preferred platform. BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

Episode 178 – Porcupine Tree Part 9, In Absentia At long last, the beginning of the “main sequence” for Porcupine Tree, In Absentia! Enter Gavin Harrison and larger-than-life riffs. In Absentia is an album that heralds a new phase of the band’s development. From the last-minute drummer change to the macabre sources we explore what makes this record such a game-changer. BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

SCS43 – Nine Inch Nails in Austin TX, March 2026 Joe recounts attending a Nine Inch Nails concert at Austin's Moody Center on March 1st, 2025 with Paul and Ken. He delivers a detailed breakdown of the production: Trent Reznor's vocal performance remains *remarkably fresh*, the rotating band (featuring Robin Finck, Stu Brooks, and Josh Freeze) delivered exceptional musicianship, and the innovative multi-stage setup with live camera feeds created a dynamic, immersive experience spanning three acts. We debate whether Reznor's evolution from rebellious icon to polished professional represents artistic growth or strategic positioning—and ultimately agree the performance was *stellar*. What's your take? Have you seen Nine Inch Nails recently? BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

Episode 177 – Porcupine Tree Part 8, Lightbulb Sun Progressive Palaver returns with a deep dive into Porcupine Tree's Lightbulb Sun —the 2000 landmark that shifted the band toward melodic, pop-influenced progressive rock. The group explores an album that initially sparked skepticism but revealed surprising depths on repeated listens. The Palaver dissects each track, celebrating Chris Maitland's phenomenal drumwork and Stephen Wilson's sophisticated song construction while wrestling with uneven moments. We appreciate Wilson's willingness to experiment before abandoning directions, and they marvel at how consecutive releases allowed genuine artistic growth during the rich prog landscape of 1999-2000. What's your take? Did *Lightbulb Sun* win you over, or does Stupid Dream remain superior? Share your thoughts on social media or email. BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

Topographic Topics – May 2026 Rarely does a single episode pack in studio obsessions, art world acquisitions, and a 19-minute prog epic all at once. The group sits down for a genuinely exciting conversation that covers a lot of ground in just 65 minutes. At the heart of the episode is Marillion's May visit to Real World Studios, where they were spotted recording new material. Joe's deep fascination with studio spaces drives some of the best discussion here. The trio also gets genuinely excited about a possible Steve Hackett guest appearance? What is it about prog fans that makes them so invested in the behind-the-scenes process? That question feels alive throughout this episode. **Beyond Marillion**, the hosts dig into the Hypnosis story, clarifying that Primary Waves acquired Poe Powell's stake rather than the entire company, and explore Advent Horizon's "Falling Together," released May 15th, with its sprawling opening track "In a Lost and Dreary World." Finally, Yes's upcoming Aurora album gets enthusiastic treatment, with one host discovering fresh appreciation for "Call to Home" during yard work. BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

Episode 176 – Porcupine Tree Part 7, Stupid Dream Things are heating up here on the Palaver. Stupid Dream shows us Porcupine Tree as a band that is on the very verge of realizing their potential. Song-driven. Direct. Unmistakably different. This is the moment the band steps into a new identity—and opens the door to a much wider audience. BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

Episode 175 – Porcupine Tree Part 6, Signify Signify presents Porcupine Tree taking another step toward their ultimate identity. Songwriting and recording begin to materialize and point the way forward. From Signify we all see the future and we like what we see. Enjoy this palaver as we enjoy this record. BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

SCS42 – The Hooters in Glenside PA, Oct 2025 Rarely does a concert fulfill decades of anticipation, but Ken's long-awaited bucket list experience seeing the Hooters at the Keswick Theater in Glenside, Pennsylvania did exactly that, and it delivered in every possible way. Ken joins Joe and Paul to break down a performance that closed out the Hooters' European tour with a genuine homecoming celebration. Legendary Philadelphia DJ Pierre Robert introduced the band, setting the tone for a night that included fan favorites like "Dancing on the Edge" and **"Boys Will Be Boys."** The horn section alone was remarkable, adding serious depth to the sound. What makes the Hooters so compelling after all these years? The core lineup of Eric Bazilian, Rob Hyman, David Uossikinen Fran Smith Jr., and John Lilly brought the kind of tight ensemble work that rivals Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band. (The reggae influences were apparently a highlight too.) Guitarist Tommy Williams handled multiple instruments throughout the night, keeping things fresh across both sets. Because this performance meant so much to Ken personally, his enthusiasm is genuinely infectious. Tune in to hear the full conversation. BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

Episode 174 – Porcupine Tree Part 5, The Sky Moves Sideways This episode dissects an album that divides opinion. Joe warmed to it despite feeling it stepped back from *Up the Downstair*. Paul and Ken acknowledge early sketches of the band's future sound—Steven Wilson's compositions show promise—yet the record often fades into background music rather than commanding attention. The group examines the album's structural comparison to Pink Floyd's *Wish You Were Here* and debate whether it's intentional influence or derivative. They praise individual musicianship and standout moments (that haunting flute melody in "Phase 1" is genuinely stunning), but critique excessive length and slow development. **Key takeaway:** *The Sky Moves Sideways* captures a band still learning to work as a cohesive unit. It's not terrible—it's a growing pain revealing Wilson's evolving vision. The question: *what comes next?* Curious about how Porcupine Tree evolved from here? **Listen now** to hear the full technical breakdown and storytelling analysis. BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

SCS41 – Asia ft John Payne and Stratospheerius, Sellersville PA, Oct 2025 What happens when you walk into a concert expecting one thing and leave with a completely different perspective? That's exactly what happened to me recently at Sellersville Theater. I attended an Asia show featuring John Payne, and I'll be honest—I initially felt like I'd crashed someone else's party. But what unfolded was genuinely transformative. What really resonated was the setlist balance. They moved seamlessly between Asia classics like "Heat of the Moment" and deeper cuts alongside John Payne's solo material. Rather than feeling disjointed, it created a narrative arc that showcased the band's evolution and range. Add in the undeniable power of Joe Deninzon and Stratospheerius and you have a night to remember at the delightful Sellersville Theater. BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

Episode 173 – Porcupine Tree Part 4, Up the Downstair Our exploration of Porcupine Tree continues with this sophomore effort which is a huge leap forward while still finding the Porcupine Tree path. Up the Downstair is an intriguing album with a compelling idea sitting underneath. Songwriting and musicianship advance while maintaining a balance with the best parts of their previous record. There are plaques to the past and road signs to the future side-by-side in this fascinating release. Join us for this quite enjoyable Palaver! BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

Topographic Topics – April 2026 We start a new type of episode here at Progressive Palaver, Topographic Topics. We actually attempt to spend a few minutes discussing topics that are NOT years old, but only weeks or months. We plan to try this from time to time when interesting things happen in the prog world. For this episode, we consider four main topics, the sale of the Jim Irsay Collection, Rush’s surprise appearance at the 2026 Juno awards, the pending release of Yes’ Aurora, and the sale of Philly DJ Pierre Robert’s personal record colleciton. We hope you enjoy. BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt

Episode 172 – Porcupine Tree Part 3, On the Sunday of Life A Palaver for Two! Ken and Joe take some time to explore the origins of Porcupine Tree with On the Sunday of Life. A broad collection of songs spanning Steven Wilson’s early explorations. This album provides a deep pool for discovery of different aspects of what will eventually blossom into the full-grown glory of the band. Ken and Joe find some real life resonances with the sounds and techniques that are used here and they allow a deeper connection with the material. Enjoy this episode! BlueSky: @progpala.bsky.social X: @progpala Instagram: www.instagram.com/progressivepalaver/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProgPala YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCw_Xxit3…cJ_7Z__w/featured Theme music provided by: Dave DeWhitt