In Absentia was Porcupine Trees seventh studio album, first released in 2002, & was the first in a run of three albums that for many represent the pinnacle of the band's artistic achievements. Not many albums can claim to have created a new genre, but with its fusion of metal, progressive rock, ambient textures, & acoustic singer-songwriter styled material, it became something of a blueprint for a generation of bands to come. It was also something of a breakthrough for the band, eventually going on to sell three times more than the bands previous releases. In Absentia features many of Porcupine Trees most beloved songs, including "Trains", "The Sound of Muzak" & "Blackest Eyes". While not a formal concept album, many of the songs have common themes related to serial killers, youthful innocence gone wrong, & observations of the modern world, setting a template for many of songwriter Steven Wilson's future songs.