THE LEAST WE CAN DO IS WAVE TO EACH OTHER

The Least We Can Do Is Wave To Each Other is basically VDGG's first album. Here they are still taking shape musically and structurally. In doing so they created a remarkable record. There are some ideas on this record that were abandoned shortly after. Such as some of the ethereal flute dominated parts. This album also contains some of Hammills bathos encumbered lyrics and higher voice that would eventually give way to his genius introspective lyrics and gravelly voice that would dominate his later efforts.

Darkness opens up the album with a droning pulse of wind, voice and organ before the bass plays a line evoking caution. The song seems to me to be about how mans horrible actions are influenced by the past and how it can poison the future. Love the single note organ solo and the sax solo that ends it. A true classic.

Refugees is the exact opposite. Beautiful flute playing augmented by cello sets the tone for Hammill's lament about two friends moving to the US. Another classic.

White Hammer is their first stab at an extended piece illustrating the witch hunts in 15th century Europe. Good song. Love the ending, the first example of VDGG's chaotic tendencies.

Whatever Would Robert Have Said a more straightforward song with a nod towards the Van de Graaff generator's inventor, Robert J. Van de Graaff.

Out Of My Book is a nice pastoral song that really gives me that feeling of young love and all of the uncertainties, and confusion due to innocence that comes with it. One of Hammill's early attempts at an introspective piece that will be expanded in great detail later in his career.

After The Flood is another extended piece that showcases some of the chaos that would be perfected on Pawn Hearts. Still with its changes and sometimes more ethereal feel to some of its parts make it a worthwhile ride.