WISH YOU WERE HERE

Another album, which by now doesn't need a total dissection. My second favortie Floyd album, and it's my goal to review each one, so I'm going to do so anyways.

Much like DSOTM, "Wish You Were" beings and ends in the same manner, this time with the epic eulogy to Syd Barret "Shine on You Crazy Diamond". The opening two minutes is one of coolest intros ever, and sets it up as an epic. From a simple four note theme to a complex guitar solo, the song covers a wide range of style, while at the same time keeping the same form. The lyrics are mournful and amazing, the lyrics just as cool.

"Welcome to the Machine" is another great song, and while many consider it the weakest part of the album, if it is the weakest, it's still incredibly strong. The vocals of the song and the instrumentation perfectly reflect the title of the song, and the whole thing almost sounds mechanical

"Have a Cigar" contains the hardest bass riffas of any PF song, and Harper's vocals don't sound terribly out of place (and it is actually better in the aspect that it is being sung by a record executive, and ot by one of the band members, a neat effect"

"Wish You Were Here" is a great ballad and is another song in tribute to Syd, although it can be applied to anyone. It can be a ballad to a lost friend or to someone you really loves, or in some cases, both

another 5-star alnum from one of the most influential bands in history