FREE HAND

This is not my favorite Gentle Giant album. However, it is probably the most accessable album to people who are unfamiliar with the Giant and their music. As in the name of an earlier album, Gentle Giant is an acquired taste. When I was first introduced to them, in 1978, a friend of mine played Octopus. So I went out and bought my own copy. I listened to it on and off for three weeks, then I didn't listen to it again for a few decades.

About ten years ago I saw Free Hand in a cut out CD bin. I was intrigued, as I only had (vague) memories of Octopus from back in the 80s. I picked it up and took it home...and was totally blown away.

From the opening finger snaps of Just the Same to the finale of Mobile, I sat there stunned. Stunned, but with a wide smile on my face. These dudes can play. These dudes can PLAY! The opening slavo of Just the Same, On Reflection, and Free Hand are hard to beat for an opening of ANY album. Just fantastic songs. And the rest just fills it in right after.

So if you are interested in learning about Gentle Giant, start with this album. It's Just the Same, as far as quality, to the earlier Giant albums. Highly recommended - if I could give half stars, then this would be 4 1/2.