MEDDLE

Pink Floyd are something of an enigma. Despite their massive success, a question looms large. An indictment perhaps of commercial success as opposed to artistry? Why is it that creating parodies of its former self, and more particularly, of its lost creative soul, Syd Barrett, brings more acclaim than it ever did in the days of Syd himself? Perhaps it could be said that a watered-down dilution and injection of some bland normality does wonders for mass acceptance, retaining as it does, a mere flavour of the soul of Barrett, who was the real thing.

That said, apart from 1-2-3 (later Clouds), Floyd was perhaps the only real innovator present in London circa 1966-67, and arguably earned the right to enjoy fame and glory, by whatever means.

One of these days is a reminder of those sound tapestries that were so typical of early Floyd.

A Pillow of Winds is another haunting piece, Barrett-like, with pretty guitars and major to minor chords. A nice descending middle section is another pleasant surprise.

Fearless is more typically Beatleish. Then again, Pink Floyd and particularly Barrett, had much to do with the concept and music in Sergeant Peppers, so fair's fair.

San Tropez is a bit like McCartney in his vaudeville mode. Unfortunately, rather like U2, Pink Floyd are not so good at anything outside their particular box ? it makes both bands sound ordinary.

Seamus is proof of the comments in the last paragraph. Rather silly as well as rather poor.

Echoes is a masterpiece of sound, Pink Floyd at their best, perhaps their best ever in artistic terms. The tour-de-force of the piece is in the 'earthly' band creeping insidiously into the sound landscape till it takes over completely, then the reverse happens, the soundscape slowly returns to blot out 'the band', eerie, haunting, atmospheric brilliance.

The album is worth 5 stars for the last track alone.

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