WISH YOU WERE HERE

How do you follow up "The Dark Side of the Moon"? How do you follow up one of the biggest selling albums of all time? How do you follow up such a perfect blend of jazz and rock and genius? Pink Floyd answered that question very well with "Wish You Were Here".

The album starts off slowly, with the smoothness of "Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Parts I, II, III, IV, and V)". A brilliantly epic track comemorating the mental collapse of former frontman Syd Barret is as touching as it is amazing. It was also a good idea to use Dick Parry on saxophone again, to give the song a little something different yet keep it reminiscent of "The Dark Side of the Moon."

Next up is "Welcome to the Machine", a swooping space rock opus that only Floyd can do. A great song to expand your mind, sober or otherwise.

"Have a Cigar" is by far my favourite Floyd track of all time. It's the song that got me into progressive rock in the first place. The wicked bass licks courtesy of Roger Waters, David Gilmour's mindblowing guitar solo, and Roy Harper's perfect vocals make this the most memorable track on the album.

The title track to the song is most likely one of the most well-known Floyd songs, and for good reason. It's sheer simpliciy and jaw-dropping lyrics make this song a true classic.

Finally, the album ends with the stunning concluding parts of "Shne on you Crazy Diamond". Part VII, with it's jazzy feel, has got to be the best Floys instrumental section ever.

Overall, this album is a masterpeice, and is a true classic in all of music.