H TO HE, WHO AM THE ONLY ONE

Van Der Graaf Generator's third release shows a much more mature and consistent band compared to their previous release, The Least We Can Do. H to He, Who Am The Only One contains some of VDGG's finest moments and doesn't have a weak moment at all. Every song, every riff, and even any single note played on this album is where it belongs and makes this album an album with no actual flaws (which is quite an achievement). This doesn't mean everything is perfect though, some songs are more interesting than others, and even more important, this is probably VDGG's most accesible release; That means the album doesn't have as much expressive vocals from Hammill as Pawn Hearts and doesn't have the raw power of Godbluff.

H to He's opener is an anthem, and probably the least interesting song on the album. It is a killer though, it really is. "Killer" is a song that features different moods, styles and riffs. Definitely the second half is very good, and really is what I expect from the band; great music with emotion and progress. H to He features some very emotional moments, like the soft "House With No Door" and the fantastic "Lost". "Lost" is one of the best songs from this album and probably one of the best VDGG has ever made. The song moves from an upbeat first part to a haunting second part, definitely one of the best love songs I've ever heard.

Though the album is pretty accesible for VDGG's standarts, it does contain some extraordinary moments. One of them is "Pioneers over C.", a very striking and experimental song. "Pioneers Over C." moves from bombastic and dramatic moments to parts lead by ambient sax and soothing vocals. Really a brilliant piece. Another powerful and experimental piece is "The Emperor In His War- Room". This is what probably is the most powerful and extreme piece on H to He. The music here starts very soft, but makes some unexpected turns to mysterious moments, very powerful choruses. This combined with Guitar Playing by King Crimson's Robert Fripp creates a very memorable experience.

H o He, Who Am The Only One really is among VDGG's best. Because of it being pretty accesible compared to other VDGG releases, this is the album I would recommend to people who are getting- or trying to get into Van Der Graaf Generator's music. Of course, this means it is a must for VDGG fans. I had a hard time deciding whether I would rate H to He four or five stars. For that reason, I give it four stars. It is a brilliant piece of music, which is very close to being perfect, but it does not have the same striking power albums like Pawn Hearts and Godbluff have though.