CLASSIC ALBUMS: THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON

"We still had a common goal, which was to become rich and famous."

And so Roger Waters lays out PINK FLOYD's two primary motivations for creating arguably one of progressive rock's greatest masterpieces, The Dark Side of the Moon. It is THE album where underground, progressive music went mainstream. And the music itself is still something that can take you places in a darkened room.

Released by Pink Floyd Music Limited as part of the "Classic Albums" series in conjunction with Dark Side's 30th anniversary, this 84 minute production is split up into a main 50 minute documentary and a 34 minute section full of 'bonus features'. (Try not to laugh at some of the other albums included in this "Classic Album" series by the likes of Meat Loaf, Phil Collins or Steely Dan)

The documentary however is quite good, and features candid interviews with all four primary band members, as well as with artistic designer Storm Thorgerson and producer/engineer extraordinaire Alan Parsons, amongst others. The various protagonists discuss their views on the meaning and significance of the album and walk the viewer through the 'secrets' and 'tricks of the trade' that were used to create "Dark Side" from the use of some of the first examples of sampling, to using tape loops and sonic experimentation. To say that this album was "carefully constructed and engineered" is an extreme understatement. However do not think that this music is in any way contrived, it is pure passion.

The DVD has lengthy philosophical discourses by Waters (in which he actually comes across as quite humane and thoughtful) interspersed with plentiful doses of Gilmour playing multiple pieces from the album. These fit well chronologically with the original videos clips of 'Time', 'Money', 'Us & Them' and the other classics as well as contemporary footage of the band recording the album in 1972/73.

Insightful, intimate and informative, this DVD documentary is a welcome addition to any Floydian's collection or for anyone who loves "Dark Side of the Moon" and wants to learn more behind the concept, its production and the band's interpretation of this classic prog album.

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