THE EARLY SINGLES

This is probably the most comprehensive collection of early 60's singles released by Pink Floyd. The biggest attraction of this album is probably to go in more depth of the history and creation of Pink Floyd, at least that's what I thought when I picked it up for an astonishing $1.50 at Goodwill. I found it as an incredibly interesting listen, especially when taking into account the influence most of these singles had on their future years. Two songs I do have to exclude (not just because of my dislike for them) from that pile are 'Arnold Layne' and 'See Emily Play'. Sure, I suppose you could say that these Beatles-style trippy ditties influenced Pink Floyd as much as their debut did, but I honestly think just like Piper at the Gates of Dawn these songs were designed to make them travel down a path that they quickly dropped and was less and less hungered by people as time went by. So, without further ado, the songs.

I have many choice picks from this album overall. My biggest pick would probably be the extremely hard to find 'Point Me At The Sky', a three and a half minute hard rock song that wasn't familiar with what Pink Floyd was in the early days or in fact for a few years to come, at least until 'The Nile Song' from More came about to take it's spotlight. It features some beautiful vocals from Gilmour which are especially great seeing as he had a better range back then and could hit the high notes quite easily. Waters sings undeniably well as well, and Gilmours guitar is nice and pumping, especially when it's right after one of the slower parts of the song. Another one of my personal favorites is 'Paint Box', a Wright song that has many ominous tones also unlike the original Floyd. What I mean to say as well is the higher structure of the song to create an awesome sound, not to mention actually understandable lyrics about a man who 'had a little bit too much to drink". Nick Mason performs some great drum fills throughout the song where Wright comes in with vocals. Great song. 'Julia Dream' is a floaty acoustic that doesn't hold much ground against the more recent Floyd, but alot of the appreciation comes from the creativity of said piece. And of course, the outstanding psychedelic symphony of 'Careful With that Axe, Eugene' is perfect, with some wonky parts combined with some great experimentation from the band, who all chipped in to write the song. 'Scarecrow' is a nice rhythmic ditty, but I didn't find it interesting because I had already heard it on the debut. The final choice pick is Wright's 'It Would Be So Nice', a very Beatles- ish song with some choral elements and an overall nice tune.

So in conclusion, this release is essential to anyone who really wants a comprehensive grasp on Pink Floyd as a band. It's perfect for their history, backround, early music development, and just downright great to listen to.

Go give it a listen.