GODBLUFF

As most prog fans know by now, this is VDGG's big comeback album after their breakup in '72. Although Peter Hammill released a series of solo albums in the interim featuring his old band mates, there were only a few spots where the songs sound like a band collaboration. Where they did was incredible and only added to the excitement of a possible reunion. You could also get a decent idea of how the band grew during the time of the split. Their playing sharpened and they became much tighter as a unit. Thankfully by the time Godbluff came out, the band was all about a new direction that was just as or arguably more creative than the last time they were together.

Contrary to Pawn Hearts, VDGG use very little studio effects and since all are much better players the quality of the music is based on the dynamics and the creativity of the playing and songwriting. Four bona-fide VDGG classics were created for this masterpiece of progressive rock.

The Undercover Man starts with a pulsating flute then organ as Hammill joins in with a whisper. To me lyrically this song is like a realization that's built from "House With No Door" and "Man-Erg". Nice instrumental parts where Jaxon shows off his skills and Hammill provides augmentation through the use of a clavinet. Great song and a great opener.

Scorched Earth, one of the greatest VDGG tunes no question, Hammill's gravelly voice spits out an ode to the destruction/progress of man as the band takes you through many twists and ultimately an incredible finale. A wild 10 minute ride.

Arrow. A very unusual opening to this unusual song has the band, with Banton on bass guitar, in jazz improv mode. Likely due to their continued confidence in their musical skills that have grown by leaps and bounds. Hammill's voice at its most extreme. A crazy wild song.

Sleepwalkers. My favorite VDGG tune probably. The whole band just does an incredible job painting the imagery of "Zombies" . I get the chills every time I hear that sax scream during the sax solo when the whole band starts rocking out. Banton's keyboards provide amazing imagery throughout.

On a side note, I am always amazed at Guy Evan's drumming. Providing some kind of timing around Hammill's lyrics and all of the twist and turns of the music is absolutely sick. Guy is one of the all time great prog drummers.

God bluff another major winner for VDGG.