ATOM HEART MOTHER

Atom Heart Mother is, in my opinion, the first "classic" Pink Floyd album. It's the band's first effort at strong songwriting, something that the more experimental Ummagumma and More didn't quite have. Everything is more focused and structured. But like every Floyd album, there is still some experimenting. The niche of this album is the use of brass and the overall symphonic sound of songs.

The title track is Pink Floyd's first attempt at an epic, and while it's not quite as good as Shine On or Echoes, it definitely has its moments. Gilmour really marks this album with his guitar style that the previous albums just seemed to miss, providing some of his best solos. Roger and Nick provide a solid rhythm, while Wright's keys are definitely more impactful throughout. The structure is unpredictable, but flows very well, and the brass ensemble is definitely a nice touch. The only fault I can possibly give this song is that it isn't as good as Echoes.

'If' is an acoustic song written by Water's. This is a very mellow and laid back song with a constant acoustic guitar melody playing throughout. There are a few breaks with organ and guitar, but this is still a very limited song. Nonetheless, the atmosphere is superb and this still remains one of my nostalgic favorites.

'Summer 68' is Wright's composition for which he plays some nice melodies on piano backed by acoustic guitar and bass. Again, the brass is tasteful, if a bit poorly executed.

Fat Old Sun is Gilmour's song and is marked by more acoustic work, and some solid supporting bass. This also contains one of my favorite guitar solos from Gilmour.

'Alan's Psychedelic Breakfast' is the most experimental song of the album. It has some amazing parts, especially the beginning piano part by Wright. Gilmour's guitar playing throughout the middle is rather spacey and atmospheric. The final section is a more up-tempo and is a dramatic close to the song and album. Unfortunately this song isn't very cohesive as a whole, and a lot of parts just seem to bounce directly to the other. Also, the eating and voices, while interesting and experimental, aren't really necessary.

Overall, Atom Heart Mother is a beautiful start to the classic Pink Floyd and is when they truly first found their sound.

7/10