H TO HE, WHO AM THE ONLY ONE

That's how a band is made. Van Der Graaf Generator chose a style of their own, different from any other rock band and that style is shown for the first time, on its final form, on H to He.The VDGG folks then knew exactly what they'd do and develop next. VDGG would be from then on recognised as a dark band. The scientific theme is very cool and original, the songs are bloody great. The lyrics are much more mature(though they'd improve to perfection during the following years) than the Aerosol and The Least stuff, Peter Hammill was rising as a lyricist and vocalist, making himself each time more confortable on his throne. David Jackson was already at his peak, a peak that would last for years: he is one of the greatest blow musicians of all time(in terms of rock). Banton and Evans were very well too and would only get better. Fripp's guest appearence is a welcome surprise: he gives us a majestic solo. If I had to pick a song among the others as the best, I'd do so with Pioneers Over C. A truly masterpiece that alone is worth the whole album. Their choice was made, although they were still a bit naive, the following album would show them on their finest form.