XM cover

XM

Porcupine Tree · 2003

52 min · 8 tracks · progressive metal · progressive rock · psychedelic rock

A sonically adventurous blend of progressive rock and metal, exploring existential themes with intricate melodies and rich instrumentation.

Spotify Apple Music
Own it: Amazon eBay

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • layered, dense sonic textures
  • gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — 'XM' marked the transition to a more mainstream audience for Porcupine Tree.
Themes
commercialism critique· sonic exploration· introspective aggression
Career context
Released in 2003, 'XM' marked a crucial point in Porcupine Tree's career as they transitioned from a cult favorite to a more mainstream audience. This album followed their critically acclaimed 'In Absentia' and showcased their continued evolution in sound and complexity during a time when the band was gaining significant traction internationally.
Stylistic neighbors
Opeth· Dream Theater· Steven Wilson
If this clicks, go next to
Deadwing — Continues the sonic exploration with heavier themes and intricate compositions.
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Blackwater Park by Opeth — Shares intricate melodies and a blend of aggression with introspective themes in a progressive context.
Second Life Syndrome by Riverside — Explores existential themes through rich instrumentation and a sonic palette that includes metal and prog elements.
Lateralus by Tool — Delves into complex rhythms and philosophical lyrics, creating an immersive experience akin to 'XM'.
New to Porcupine Tree? Find your way in →

Tracklist

New here? Start with "Blackest Eyes".

  • 1 Blackest Eyes Start here 4:28
  • 2 The Sound of Muzak 5:04
  • 3 Gravity Eyelids 7:32
  • 4 Wedding Nails 5:19
  • 5 Even Less / Slave Called Shiver 11:40
  • 6 Heartattack in a Layby 4:18
  • 7 Strip the Soul 7:08
  • 8 Tinto Brass 6:38

What to play next

This album is considered a Breakthrough in Porcupine Tree's catalog. 'XM' marked the transition to a more mainstream audience for Porcupine Tree.

Deadwing
Listen next

Deadwing

2005

Continues the sonic exploration with heavier themes and intricate compositions.
In Absentia
Go back to

In Absentia

2002

Sets the stage for XM's sound with its dark and complex musicality.
Full Porcupine Tree discography Where to start with Porcupine Tree Artists like Porcupine Tree
progressive metal progressive rock psychedelic rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata