Pink Floyd

The Division Bell

To Communicate, Not Innovate

Review Score:

(10/10)
Division Bell is probably my Favorite Pink Floyd album, even over Dark Side of The Moon. I understand that the general mass of people would not agree that Division is Floyd's best material. It is unlike anything from the late Water's era in that it does not have that ultimately dark, experimental sound to it that Animals or The Wall had. Still, I think it's unfair to underate this album based on lyrical accusations and I think it's even more rediculous to say that the music, especially Gilmour's guitar, is "watered down," as the introductory editorial for Amazon suggests.

I don't want to patronize too much with obvious details, but this album is generally about how recognition between one individual and another and vice-versa can break down through a fundamental lack of communication and/or understanding. It's a very adequate concept considering the complete breakdown between Waters and the rest of the band, and I think all Floyd fans know some frustration that differences in this matter could not be circumvented. As in Momentary Lapse of Reason, the lyrics seem to be geared as compliments to the music rather than the dominating focus of the album. However, this album lyrically is a step up from A Momentary Lapse of Reason, and the words seem far more relevant and honest.

I can perhaps understand someone claiming that Gilmour's guitar in this album is "unfloydian," but to say Gilmour's guitar is "watered down" seems unfair and innacurate. If you need proof of this, listen to track #5 "Marooned" on this album. This song features some of my favorite guitar work from any artist because it captures an admonition or a monologue without any lyrics. The song then becomes wholly open to interpretation by the listener. It is unpretentious and yet emotional, and gives a sound example of the type of guitarist Gilmour is and always has been. The guitar work lacks some of the experimentation present in other Floyd efforts, but appears unhidden, exposed and beautiful. I think that was Gilmour's intent in this album; to truly communicate rather than innovate. It seems unfair to criticize him for some personal expression, especially when it's so perfectly executed

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