THE PIPER AT THE GATES OF DAWN

Now I actually personally believe this album deserves a 5 star, but I'm only saying 4 because while it is simply amazing, it certainly is more psychedelic pop rock than Progressive rock. Only a few songs are a bit progressive in nature, like Pow R. Toc. H. And Interstellar Overdrive. The rest are just memorable psychedelic songs, 3-5 minutes in length. But they're really good, believe me!! Some people might not like the simplicity in Syd Barrett's songs, or the immature storytelling, but I love it. It makes me feel very warm and happy, like a child. Syd Barrett's genius can be seen in this album. He wrote every song on the album except Interstellar Overdrive, in which they all worked together, and Take up Thy Stethoscope and Walk, which was written by Roger Waters. Richard Wright's keyboards, while they don't sound much like the surreal progressive side they take during their progressive era, are quite psychedelic and impressive. By far this is definitely their fastest album in my opinion, and takes you on an incredible journey through psychedelic scenes, from outer space, to whimsical tales about cunning cats, and fairy tale kings, gnomes, bikes, scarecrows, philosophical poetry (Chapter 24) and impressive psychedelic jam sessions. With this album, you either like it or hate it, there's really not in between. I would suggest listening to a sample before you deem yourself, as a prog fan, ready to listen to this psychedelic masterpiece. I would say that this is an amazing debut album. It makes you feel happy and colourful inside.