THE LEAST WE CAN DO IS WAVE TO EACH OTHER

Like all great progressive rock records released on the formidable heavy, post-psychedelic scene that is 1970, it fulfils its purpose in transcending you to another dimension. Van Der Graaf Generator's first worthy offering "The Least We Can Do" certainly achieves this, by attaining an incredibly definite and unique atmosphere. The airtight musicianship and songwriting talents of Peter and the band enable this, but there's some fifth element in here. The album consistently has a perfect balance of English obscurities and heartfelt poetic outbursts. Unlike a lot of its competition, it stills stands up (both musically and lyrically) to this day, remaining as relevant and timeless as ever.

On a slightly less pretentious note, "The Least We Can Do" will regrettably always be overshadowed by such beasts as "H To He" and "Pawn Hearts". However, this record should most certainly be revisited and remembered, possibly hailed as one of VDGG's milestones. A huge advance onward from the less thrilling debut, made even more impressive by substantial band and record label issues. The fact that they released this and 2 other great works in under 2 years, in addition to touring, shows just how prolific Peter was.

The songs occasionally lack that sort of grandiose that so suits their signature sound, and the band are still finding their voice to an extent. Nevertheless, an optimum starting point for any new listeners to the band. Notably less jarring/intimidating, yet somehow just as eccentric and wild as their later releases. As Hammill himself said, don't listen to it with any preoccupations or you'll blow your chances. You have to be in just the right frame of mind to allow the album to have its full effect on you.

B+: Dark, profound, and eclectic, but for some reason I'm reluctant to give it 5 stars. Maybe it's just that their other albums were so perfect.

Darkness: ***** Refugees: ***** White Hammer: **** Whatever Would Robert Have Said?: **** Out Of My Book: **** After The Flood: ****