Much like a certain famous fellow Porcupine Tree member, guitarist John Wesley has had a busy schedule since that band’s hiatus; particularly with a prominent solo career (which of course also started during PT’s years). Unlike this certain counterpart however whom has veered far away from any sense of PT’s metallic elements, these have remained a core part of Wesley’s sound, additionally of course with prog and a broad range of styles to boot. 

2014’s Disconnect (InsideOut) exemplified the wide influences of Wesley’s sound more strongly than much of his previous back catalogue; now new release A Way You’ll Never Be (InsideOut) sees his song writing fine tuned. Album opener ‘By The Light Of The Sun’ immediately strikes with a Tool reminiscent tone and hook, and ends with a twisting, explorative guitar passage. Elsewhere there are clear signs of the likes of blues such as in the opening to ‘To Outrun The Light’ through to signs of abrasive jazz akin to King Crimson particularly prominent in parts of ‘The Revolutionist’.

With this encompassing of a wide palette of styles, Wesley has managed to tie them together and still make music that is at first listens accessible and memorable, showcasing his improved song writing. Further listens and trained ears reveal increased nuances and subtleties throughout however and prove this to be a much richer and burgeoning concoction than first impressions suggest.

John Wesley may not have or ever reached the same levels of acclaim or commercial success as his former Porcupine Tree luminary, but his solo efforts are by no means surplus and offer a great variety in their formulas; and A Way You’ll Never Be is a particularly vivid and strong release to his catalogue. With impressive amounts of influence and range, but brought together in a way that is fluid and, importantly, grabbing, Wesley proves once again to be one of prog’s underrated, but captivating individuals.

7.0/10

CHRIS TIPPELL