Review BIG BIG TRAIN “Woodcut”

“Woodcut” is the new album from Big Big Train. The international group, featuring band members from England, Italy, the USA, Sweden and Norway, has finished work on its 16th studio album, delivering 66 minutes of soulful, filigree progressive rock.

Founded in 1990, Big Big Train are among the greats of progressive music, releasing studio albums such as “Woodcut”. The band started out as a studio project, and they still focus primarily on creating and recording new music. Live shows are rather limited, with the first appearance taking place in 2015. However, concerts have recently gained more attention, and there is a possibility of experiencing the band in a live setting, as a Europe/UK tour is scheduled for 2026.

“Woodcut” is a concept album based on an idea generated by Spawton and Bravin while visiting the Munch Museum in Oslo, Norway. Inspired by what they saw, the storyline was developed in collaboration with the entire band. The album is about a character called The Artist, who struggles with creativity and life’s challenges. At a certain moment, creating a woodcut changed things. The Artist is fascinated by the woodcut and its beauty. He becomes immersed in the parallel world reflected by the woodcut, perhaps due to mental illness, reality, dreaming or fantasy. This is the basic storyline that connects the sixteen chapters of “Woodcut”.

The music skilfully strengthens the narrative, with the band exploring a world of great melodies and epic soundscapes. From the energetic “Cut and Run” to the soulful and touching “Dead Point”, Big Big Train’s latest album has it all. Take “Arcadia” as an example. This introverted and emotional song features the cello, flute, and 12-string guitar, all of which contribute to the lyrical context.

“Woodcut” is both a lyrical adventure and a musical delight. Musicians with an ambitious vision and exceptional craftsmanship have created an album that entertains and inspires. It is an emotional journey, with songs of immediate beauty that continue to blossom over time.