ANIMALS

It has already been summed up here on PA. "Animals" was composed at a time when rock music was drastically changing with many great bands battling with the onslaught of Punk. Some Pink Floyd fans prefer the more quaint, ethereal sounds from the band's previous classics ("Meddle", Dark Side", Wish You Were Here"). For me, this and "The Wall" are also among thier masterworks, although they are much darker both conceptually and musically.

In many respects, given the times, it is quite fitting to have had such a change in mood. In fact, this extraordinary group ought to be commended for the way in which they revived their music. This was completely unexpected and very distant to anything that came before it. Waters took charge of the lyrics and concept and was on the rampage. In his harshest manner he rips apart society, intriguingly through the use of three types of animals: dogs, the materialistic, concerned only with wealth, power and their own well-being; "Pigs" are no less flattering, high- positioned and self-righteous and "Sheep" are the aimless and docile masses who get used and abused by the more powerful Dogs and Pigs.

The lyrics are often very sharp and downbeat but the music is fantastic and often a lot more pleasing.The melodic acoustic songs "Pigs on the Wing," parts 1 and 2, somehow work well with the overall vibe of the album. Perhaps a way of settling the nerves. Gilmour puts in plenty of creativity here with his tuneful, fluid guitar work and Richard Wright's keyboards are no exception. The chilling synths during the main intelude in "Dogs" is one favourite moment of mine. Music like this is certainly not heard every day.

It's hard to pick best moments here because everything is great but I particularly love "Sheep". Although the music has a harder edge, there's a sense of purpose and direction with "Animals". This was a prelude to an even more fascinating concept album to come. This is astoundingly excellent, profound music. Thoroughly recommended. 5 stars.