Does anyone else feel like Steven Wilson is just frustrated after all these years, and wants to crack the mainstream, but won't just come out and say it!
I think it's fairly well documented that he has voiced his opinions on bands that have been huge sellers. To me there always feels like there is a bitter edge there. Or a sly dig at big selling bands. I think he's just too cool to come out and say "yes, I'd like to sell as many albums, and reach as many people as Coldplay or Radiohead. I am equally, if not more talented than them and the public need to realise this."
To me, at this point, every interview I read about the sound of the new album and the direction he's moved as an artist, just feels fake. It just sounds like he's trying to justify the style of music he is playing, in a credible way that is also like a social commentary. Like, just fess up and say, "This style is what's popular and I want to be more popular so that's why the album sounds this way".
I'd have more respect for him then I think. The whole promotion of the new album has just turned me off and left a bit of a sour taste in my mouth. I might be off base but it's just how the whole thing comes across to me and I can't shake it. Anyone else?
All that said, the new album is alright and I'll give it a few more listens.