THE MADCAP LAUGHS

"The Madcap Laughs" was Syd's debut album released in January of 1970. The whimsical poet is helped by his former PINK FLOYD mates Roger Waters and David Gilmour, while SOFT MACHINE members (1969) also help out on two tracks. Actually Roger and David came to the rescue when EMI threatened to pull the plug on the sessions because of Barrett's incompetance. His former bandmates said they would help Syd finish it, which of course they did.

"Terrapin" is a catchy and relaxed tune with the focus on Syd's vocals.This is the longest track as well. "No Good Trying" is a top three for me mainly because of the instrumental work of the SOFT MACHINE members. Ratledge's fuzzed out organ and Wyatt's drumming talents really add a lot while Hopper's bass is also prominant. "Love You" opens with strummed guitar before vocals, drums and piano take over. Some silly lyrics here. "No Man's Land" is another top three with SOFT MACHINE backing up.This is darker and the guitar by Barrett sounds excellent. I can picture Wyatt pounding away. Spoken words after 2 minutes. "Dark Globe" features Syd crying out the lyrics as he strums his guitar.

"Here I Go" is a catchy little tune that reminds me of Kevin Ayers. "Octopus" has some energy as Syd strums his guitar and sings with passion. "Golden Hair" is slower paced and kind of dark with reserved vocals. I like it ! This is my other top three tune. "Long Gone" is another great track with those organ runs and psychedelic lyrics. The next three tracks all feature vocals and acoustic guitar leading the way.The final track is "Late Night" and it's better than the last three. Electric guitar, light drums and vocals all sound really good here.

A special album from a very special and talented man but when compared to his compositions when with FLOYD I find this is lacking. 3.5 stars.