Pink Floyd

Wish You Were Here

My favorite Floyd

Review Score:

(10/10)
Contrary to popular belief, "Wish You Were Here" is NOT the best song on this album. However, this 5-track work is my FAVORITE Pink Floyd recording (imagine what it's competing against-- Animals, DSotM, and Meddle, among others!) David Gilmour's guitar work has never been more lyrical-- as exemplified in the two part, 25-minute "Shine On, You Crazy Diamond." But that's not the only attraction. Rick Wright is really given a chance to show his skills on all the tracks (especially part 2 of "Shine On"), and no single band member dominates the proceedings (which, unfortunately, occurs on every Floyd album after this point).

"Welcome to the Machine" is a great track which showcases Wright terrifically-- Gilmour plays only about 6 different chords on the entire track, and the spacey keyboard solos are the centerpiece (Roger Waters' lyrics on this song are pretty bad, probably on purpose). This is probably the weakest song on the album, but it is still an awesome song-- which demonstrates the quality of the album as a whole.

The next track, the concise (by Floyd standards) "Have a Cigar" has a brilliant funky bassline, courtesy of Mr. Waters. Guest vocalist Roy Harper sings lead vocals to great effect, and Gilmour's solo is amazing. Steady Nick Mason is consistent here as on all the tracks, and Wright is a great accompanist.

Next is the great Floyd ballad, "Wish You Were Here." Although it's not the best song on the album, it is still great in it's simplicity, and Waters writes touching lyrics. Great, radio-friendly song.

Overall, I highly recommend this album, even if you are just a casual Pink Floyd fan. It also serves as a great introduction to the Floyd. All the band members are given equal "air time," and the finished product is stunning.

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