WISH YOU WERE HERE

Separately from several of the past works and evidently overshadowed by the impact caused by "Dark Side of the Moon", this 1975 production is clearly the most unidirectional PINK FLOYD album since it follows a straight perfectly drawn line from beginning to end. And by "unidirectional" I don't speak of monotonousness and plainness, au contraire, it is that certain air of unattractiveness that makes it even more appealing to the common listener. While looking through this never-ending list of reviews and critics set upon this magnificent album, all what's to be done is to pop the CD in the stereo and let the magic begin. "Wish You Were Here" isn't only one of the most representative latter half of the seventies memorabilia, it is indeed the kind of recording that separates lasciviousness from idleness; it tells apart musical contemporaneity from old-fashioned formulas reinvented over and over again; and most importantly, it drives the way to endless comfort and enjoyment.

The first thing that caught my attention right away, besides David GILMOUR's refined guitar execution; were the lyrics written for this album. Astonishing and breathtaking. Unpretentious, clean, emotive, meaningful. what can I say, for the first time I felt that passionate approach to the band, inexplicable even on the "Dark Side of the Moon" and "Meddle" levels. Secondly, the delicate, mind-blowing touch by Dick PARRY. That special issue certainly deserves a separate review, but since my contribution here is limited to "a review a piece", I'll leave that out for another occasion. Thus, all those components I just underlined for you, combined with Roger WATERS' lyricism, give a very evocative result. There's no possible way to narrow this album down to a precise description, as you have read me trying and struggling to do so; so that's up to you to describe. You name it, "Wish Your Were Here" has got it.

Obviously to me, as you have noticed; the album emanates such mysticism and power unrevealed by the band at this point, turning this experience so new, so unique, that claims for unspoken recognition. "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" is definitely a subdivision to what's been considered "conceptual" so far those times within prog world and established considerable parameters of comparison. The nine episode suite resembles that epical PINK FLOYD touch already represented in previous recordings, demonstrating the band wasn't bottled up in one single progressive formula. Unarguably, it is the most signifying track out of the entire record, is it indeed the proof of the altitudes from where PINK FLOYD was able to dive and then fly back across the sky in a matter of heartbeats. As described up above, guitar displaying by David GILMOUR is provocatively remarkable and unrepeatable. Keyboards intromissions by Rick WRIGHT are inscriptively precise, very well crafted and organized, a necessary piece to understand the mere intention of the album in its entireness. For complimentary effects, I'll just refer to "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" as enticingly perfect.

The songs in between, are indispensable as well to completely enjoy the experience. "Welcome to the Machine" evokes the irrational, psychedelic dash of experimentation performed throughout "Dark Side of the Moon", with the erratic noises and the delightfully sardonic lyrics. When moving on to "Have a Cigar", the mood perceived in the air turns kinda funky and dysfunctional (figuratively speaking), where WATERS plainly sings (along Roy HARPER) the story about the band's first experience with a record company manager ever. The lyrics here are indisputably rhetorical, showing us there's more to this world full of crap and luxury, where constant self-searching bring us back to where we started from. Revealingly amusing, this lyrical composition lets us see through another deeper side of PINK FLOYD.

"Wish You Were Here". The self-titled song is definitely one of the most recognizable not only for the fans, but for the audiences worldwide. I understand it is also one of the easiest songs to play on guitar, but since I'm not a guitarist, I'll just have to believe the word on street and be faithful to those bohemian gatherings were the song is always played for my unstoppable enjoyment. A beautiful song indeed, where inner feelings constantly dwell to find a way out of misery, sorrow and obscurity, just to reach out for the understanding and the emotiveness. David GILMOUR leading the vocals is simply great, showing off his well educated skills that happen to be undeniably outstanding. More than bringing you to tears, this piece will take you to unrevealing heights where you can only let go of everything and die for a fugacious moment that will bring you back to life itself. A geniality made music.

So, what are you all doing here still reading? Go dust this album off, slide it out its case and pop it in the stereo. If you're one of the few that sadly haven't gotten it yet, what are you waiting for? Go, fly, run or whatever you gotta do to have it. Until the day I cease to exist, I will love this album. Indisputably, the whole five stars.