What makes Lazarus by Porcupine Tree notable?

'Lazarus' received significant attention for its emotive songwriting and atmospheric production, charting on various international charts and earning critical acclaim. The single's success contributed to Porcupine Tree's growing reputation in the progressive rock community and influenced a new generation of artists exploring similar sonic territories. By 2005, Porcupine Tree had established themselves within the progressive rock scene with their sixth studio album, 'Deadwing', released the previous year. 'Lazarus' marks a pivotal moment as it showcases the band's continued evolution in sound while solidifying their commercial presence through increased radio play and broader audience reach.

How many songs are on Lazarus?

Lazarus has 3 tracks, running approximately 15 minutes.

Lazarus

Porcupine Tree · 2005

15 min · 3 tracks · progressive metal

Ethereal melodies intertwine with intricate instrumentation, creating a haunting soundscape that explores themes of loss and introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Lazarus (radio edit) — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with its poignant lyrics and lush arrangement, serving as a reflection on mortality and longing.
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So Called Friend — This track features a blend of melancholic guitar lines and reflective lyrics, illustrating the emotional depth that characterizes much of the album.
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Half‐Light — With its progressive structure and evolving dynamics, this song showcases the band's signature style while delving into themes of uncertainty and nostalgia.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong songwriting and atmospheric production, contributing to its distinct sound within progressive metal.

What we noticed

The title track features a slow build, starting with a soft piano intro that gradually layers in strings and vocals, creating an atmospheric depth.
The second track, 'So Called Friend', shifts to a more rhythmic structure with prominent guitar riffs, contrasting the ethereal quality of the first.
The final track, 'Half‐Light', employs a gradual fade-out, leaving the listener with lingering notes that evoke a sense of introspection.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Lazarus marked a pivotal moment, gaining significant attention and acclaim.
Themes: mortality reflection· introspective longing· nostalgic uncertainty
Career context: By 2005, Porcupine Tree had established themselves within the progressive rock scene with their sixth studio album, 'Deadwing', released the previous year. 'Lazarus' marks a pivotal moment as it showcases the band's continued evolution in sound while solidifying their commercial presence through increased radio play and broader audience reach.
Stylistic neighbors: Opeth· Dream Theater· Steven Wilson