ATOM HEART MOTHER

Although this was one of our favourite records back in the seventies and we couldn't understand some particular criticisms there had been on it then, now that a lot of water has run under the bridges and we approach again to this music with more expert and wise -I expect- ears, I have to admit there was some rightness in them.

Not that the record -an improvment after the uneven More- were uninspired but perhaps that the materialization of that inspiration was not made in the best direction. The instrumental title theme is now too eclectic in writing and too embellished with arrangements. The shorter songs on B-side were typical of pre-Dark Side Pink Floyd, similar to the ones found in Meddle. The mini suite Alan's Psychedelic Breakfast is again instrumental and full with taped sounds. All of them good and correct but none thrilling or moving.

One thing is sure, the presentation of the record as a piece af art was impressive and stunning as the following Floyd records were going to be. The display of modern, concept, avant-garde art and photography together with its humorous approach that pervades the music here and there (the two longer instrumental pieces, above all) were added values to that concept album, a must back in 1970, cow mania included.

Three and half stars really but, if hesitating, incline yourself for the following Meddle, a much more achieved work.