Up the Downstair cover

Up the Downstair

Porcupine Tree · 1993

47 min · 10 tracks · progressive metal · progressive rock · psychedelic rock

A seamless blend of progressive rock and psychedelic textures that invites listeners on an immersive auditory journey.

Why this album works

This album helped solidify Porcupine Tree's reputation in the progressive rock community, receiving positive reviews for its innovative sound. It laid the groundwork for their later success, influencing a wave of progressive metal bands and contributing to the resurgence of interest in the genre during the 1990s.
Best for
wave-like pacing with peaks immersive auditory journey experience dynamic progression between tracks
Context
Up the Downstair is Porcupine Tree's second studio album, released in 1993 after their debut, On the Sunday of Life... (1991). At this point, the band's sound began to crystallize, moving beyond their early experimental roots into more cohesive compositions. This album marked a significant step in establishing their identity within the progressive rock genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Tool· Deep Purple· Jerry Garcia

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 What You Are Listening To… 0:57
  • 2 Synesthesia Standout 5:11
  • 3 Monuments Burn Into Moments 0:20
  • 4 Always Never Standout 6:58
  • 5 Up the Downstair 9:59
  • 6 Not Beautiful Anymore 3:26
  • 7 Siren 0:53
  • 8 Small Fish 2:43
  • 9 Burning Sky Standout 11:07
  • 10 Fadeaway 6:15

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata