WISH YOU WERE HERE

In my opinion this is one of the most overrated albums on this site. Don't get me wrong, it's a good album, but there are so many better ones to choose from. The main reason to buy this album is Shine On You Crazy Diamond, a multi-part song that encompasses the first and last tracks of the album. This song has many great moments, including David Gilmour's jazz-influenced guitar work during the opening, and Roger Water's lyrics; a tribute to their former bandmate Syd Barett. The two tracks that follow the first half of Shine On you Crazy Diamond are mediocre at best; while mildly enjoyable at points, there's nothing really intriguing about them. The next song, which is the title track, isn't really progressive, but that doesn't stop it from being a great song nonetheless. Overall, a good album, but if you have a recording of Shine on You Crazy Diamond elsewhere, there is no need to buy it.

Highlights: Shine On you Crazy Diamond, Wish you were Here

Lowlights: Welcome to the Machine, Have a Cigar

The Verdict: 3 stars