GIANT FOR A DAY

Giant For A Day is often considered Giants worst album, and with good reason. This is the biggest misstep in GG's career, IMO. By this time, Giant had gone completely pop, and its not good pop (like what you'll find on Civilian). Also, the 80s sound completly plauges this album. The drums sound terrible, and I find the production to be sub-par for a Gentle Giant record as well. The music is played well, but the trouble is, for the most part, it's not good music.

Things start off with the average Words From The Wise. Not a bad track, but not progressive. Also, i find that the chours sounds an awful lot like I Am A Camera from Civilian (but i suppose thats Cilivians problem). Giant For A Day is a 'rockier' track that to me is just killed by the 80s sound, although not a complete waste of a song. The only shining moment on this record is the instrumental Spooky Boogie. And sadly, it is one of the shortest. Good keyboard and vibes work here, as well as guitar and a well placed scream. (Also, according to Gentle Giant's offical website, this song was used the Nation Hockey League when going to commericals during the month of October, so i suppose they were recognized somehow, although years later). I bought the record for this song, and I still think it was worth it. Take Me is, again, an average pop song. Unfortunatly the only song worth mentioning after that one is Friends (a mediocore ballad to friendship). The rest of the album, IMO, is just poorly written 80s pop. Truly a sad day for the Gentle Giant fan.

All in all, this is for people who want to be able to say 'I own all of Gentle Giant's studio albums'. I would also recommend this for Spooky Boogie, although only if you could find it for cheap. For fans only. A solid two stars.