GODBLUFF

Van der Graaf Generator's album prior to this one 'Pawn Hearts' was released in 1971, after which the band continued under the Peter Hammill solo flag. In 1975 the band came back with a new sound; more direct, less majestic, less symphonic and quite raw. On 'Godbluff' the band remained dynamic, emotionally involved and well-versed in extended song-writing techniques; of which the opening track 'The Undercover Man' is perhaps the best example here. On this track the band goes from the quietest opening to an ever growing intensity before arriving in the opening chords of 'Scorched Earth' - which is quick to pick up the pace. With its imaginative lyrics about the chaos of war and heavy chords sequences on the self-build organs of Banton this song is sure to get you on the tip of you seat. The double sax by David Jackson is fierce here and effective in creating both the brave and chaotic war atmospheres. Peter Hammill is as expressive as ever, but without the cloaking of that early seventies reverb sound his voice is way more direct and therefor more disturbing. This becomes even more apparent on the bleak (guitarless) heavy metal song 'Arrow', in which Hammill screams his longs out. Perhaps this song is a bit too psyched out confronting for most listeners and I wouldn't particularly recommend this song as your introduction to this band. The final track 'Sleepwalkers' is perhaps the most regular VdGG song here, with both majestic and fearful themes and quirky instrumental passages. It used to be my favorite, but these days I'm most impressed by the continual growth of intensity of the first side of the LP.