FREE HAND/INTERVIEW

Since Gentle Giant typically pack so much good stuff--and even pack a lot of creativity and instrumentation into their not-so-good stuff--I rarely mind the short run times of many of their albums. However, if you're feeling that you're due for a bargain from the band, this is one of the best I can recommend.

I've reviewed these album elsewhere, but I believe the sound, creativity, formula, and overall quality is very similar on each of the albums included, Free Hand and Interview. There are no epics and few multipart songs, there is a lot of creativity within each of the songs. In that respect, this truly is classic Giant.

Rather than discuss the songs, I'll talk about the players. Derek is the most prominent, and this can be a detriment, because he can push his capabilities a bit much for my liking. Kerry's contributions are the most rewarding upon many listens, because he is really doing a lot of heavy lifting to create numerous textures within individual songs. Gary is rarely at the forefront, but he and Kerry have a great syncopation going at this point and can really play off each other. Weathers really pushes the tempo and energy, which is a big part of why some of these songs rock so hard. Finally, Ray is the oddball, as you have to listen carefully to pick up his bass work, but he is essential in providing harmonies and textures, such as on the violin. In all, a great group of musicians who appear to enjoy playing with each other.

If you don't have these albums, you can take my strategy and kill two birds with one stone.