Pink Floyd

The Piper At The Gates Of Dawn

First Rate 60s British Psychedelia

Review Score:

(10/10)
This album may not be for everyone, but to these ears, Piper At the Gates of Dawn is one of the finest works from the psychedelic era. The album's title was taken from a chapter in Barrett's favorite children's book Wind in the Willows. Syd Barrett (who wrote most of the songs) often displayed a lighthearted, playful and humorous quality in his lyrical imagery. This would put Piper at odds most of Pink Floyd's later work for that reason alone, since the latter day Pink Floyd seemed to favor themes more on the serious and depressing side. That did not stop 1970's Pink Floyd from having great albums in their own right though. I think that most of the negative reviews may be from people who either are not particularly interested in the 60's, or just haven't given the album the attention it deserves.

The band has a unique instrumental style here characterized by eerie Farfisa organ and an unusual, almost percussive lead guitar style. The opening track Astronomy Domine takes off, and brings the listener on a hallucinogenic journey all throughout space. Some of the tracks, like the instrumental Interstellar Overdrive, feature excellent improvisation by the musicians that can not really be categorized. Most of the songs are well-crafted and around or under three minutes. The Gnome and The Scarecrow are interesting folkish character sketches from Barrett. Matilda Mother has intriguing words, and an Arabian-like organ solo. Flaming has unusual lyrics, drifting into a brief and relaxing instrumental section before coming back to the final verse. Lucifer Sam "Siam cat" possibly dealt with duality, ("you're the left side, he's the right side") with Barrett's guitar sounding like a cat's moan in places. Waters' only contribution was the absurd Take Up Thy Stethoscope and Walk, which featured some truly intense instrumental freak-outs with piercing organ and ball-bearings run up and down the guitar strings. My favorite track is Chapter 24, which has hopeful lyrics wedded to soothing music. There is also some excellent vocal harmony on this track.

Overall, I strongly recommend buying Piper At the Gates of Dawn if you are interested in 60's psychedelia. Syd Barrett drew from many literary influences in his work, and seems to have been quite an interesting character. The whimsical British nature is also quite appealing. Since I am more into the 60's, this might be my favorite Floyd album. Strongly recommended folks!

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