This is regarded as one of the classic albums of all time and it’s certainly featured on a few coffee tables across the length and breadth of the country. Way back in 1973, it was seen as really groundbreaking stuff and it was even used by hi fi buffs to assess the quality of their stereo systems. But now, 27 years on, exactly how good is it really?
This was probably the peak of Pink Floyd’s success both artistically and commercially. It remained in the top 30 albums chart for years and proved a hard act for the band to follow. Bassist Roger Waters provided all the lyrics, and the music was provided by him, drummer Nick Mason, keyboardist Rick Wright and guitarist Dave Gilmour in relatively equal measures. The themes largely centred on madness, alienation, death and other such pleasant matters.
It’s certainly an atmospheric, moody piece and even includes the attractive Money, but this work could not be construed as good time party music - anything but. It’s quite harrowing stuff at times and it’s definitely not immediately accessible. Even the prism on the front cover in front of a black backdrop is knowingly obscure.
The Floyd struggled to match this one for years - Wish You Were Here and Animals were successful, but Dark Side of the Moon is Pink Floyd for many people.
Overall, it’s probably one of the more accomplished albums of the 1970’s - it was derided by the harbingers of punk, but is definitely one to listen to if not to buy.
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Advantages: A musical watershed; Your CD player will biodegrade before these tracks become yesterday's noise... Disadvantages: Hazardous to listen to if you're prone to contemplating suicide...
Oct 5th, 2000
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