The Incident (album)

The Incident is the tenth studio album by British progressive rock band Porcupine Tree, released on April 17, 2009 in Europe and April 21, 2009 in the United States. The album is notable for its concept album format, with the first disc largely consisting of a single, 55-minute song cycle also titled "The Incident." The second disc contains four separate compositions.

The concept behind "The Incident" is loosely based on a car accident Steven Wilson witnessed on the M4 motorway, although the narrative is more abstract and explores themes of modern alienation, random events, and the overwhelming nature of information in contemporary society. The lyrics are intentionally open to interpretation, allowing listeners to draw their own conclusions about the meaning of the "incident."

The album's artwork was created by Lasse Hoile, a frequent collaborator with Porcupine Tree, and further contributes to the album's themes and atmosphere. The Incident received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its ambition, sonic textures, and Wilson's songwriting. The album was commercially successful, reaching the top 25 in several countries, including the UK and the US. It also cemented Porcupine Tree's reputation as a leading progressive rock band.