Welcome to the Planet cover

Welcome to the Planet

Big Big Train · 2022

47 min · 9 tracks · progressive rock

A vibrant tapestry of melodic progressions woven with intricate instrumentation and reflective lyricism that invites listeners into a whimsical journey.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Made From Sunshine Start here — This opening track sets the tone with its uplifting melodies and vivid imagery, encapsulating the album's theme of exploration and wonder.
  • →
    Capitoline Venus — The brief yet impactful piece juxtaposes historical reflection with modern sensibilities, showcasing the band's ability to blend narrative and sound seamlessly.
  • →
    Welcome to the Planet — As the title track, it serves as a grand conclusion, weaving together the album’s motifs while inviting listeners to embrace a sense of curiosity and connection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and strong production, appealing to fans of progressive rock.

What we noticed

  • The album features extended tracks, with four of the nine exceeding six minutes, allowing for complex musical developments.
  • The use of orchestral instruments alongside traditional rock elements adds layers to the arrangements, enhancing the overall texture.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo reflective journey
  • heartfelt storytelling with warmth
  • intricate arrangements for deep listening
  • for afternoon introspection

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of quick gratification
  • prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality and depth in their sound after previous successes.
Themes
whimsical exploration· historical reflection· vivid imagery
Career context
Released on January 1, 2022, 'Welcome to the Planet' is Big Big Train's tenth studio album, marking a significant point following their acclaimed 2019 release, 'Grand Tour'. This album showcases their continued evolution in the progressive rock genre, featuring new collaborations and a refined sound while maintaining their signature storytelling style.
Stylistic neighbors
Transatlantic· The Flower Kings· Marillion

Tracklist

  • 1 Made From Sunshine Start here 4:05
  • 2 The Connection Plan 3:55
  • 3 Lanterna 6:29
  • 4 Capitoline Venus 2:25
  • 5 A Room With No Ceiling 4:51
  • 6 Proper Jack Froster 6:38
  • 7 Bats in the Belfry 4:54
  • 8 Oak and Stone 7:12
  • 9 Welcome to the Planet 6:40

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata