Peter Hammill: Essential Albums?

 

Silent Corner and Empty Stage is a definite.

 

After that I would say that Over is important, but I'm also particular to an album that not many have heard that apparently had release issues ... Skin. It is a very nice album and very strong, and the last 2 cuts specially (for me) resonate really well and powerfully. 4 Pails of water ... and a ... it's just so well spoken/sung that it is hard not to think, how nice this is.

 

I really do not have a least favorite at all ... I listened to Black Box the other day and enjoyed it just fine. I listened to Out of Water (that last cut still is one of my favorites of all the PH songs btw!) and liked it fine. Some don't like Nadir's Big Chance. I do!

 

In general, when he is more experimental and out there trying different things Peter Hammill stands out better than most. My biggest issue with the current VDGG thing? It sounds tired and the same. It has none of the power that H to He, or Pawn Hearts, or Godbluff gave us ... not even close. It's not resonating as strongly as before. I know Peter, that you like to get around, but give yourself a break dude! Enjoy some relaxation and time off and a sunset or sunup for a change!