HIGH HOPES/ KEEP TALKING (SINGLE)

The sole single from "The Division Bell" recordings has two things going for it; the album sleeve design from Thorm Thorgesun, and the 7 minutes live version of brilliant 'One of the Days' which is a real blast. Yes, it has appeared on "Pulse" since, but at the time it was an absolute must!

The songs are all great of course. 'High Hopes' slashed down to 5 minutes is still wonderful and the film slip is similar to the single cover too with high flying silk sashes billowing in the breeze. The shape towers over the protagonist in an ominous looming shadow in the sky and it is one of the most outstanding single covers of the band; a real collector's delight. It is the best song on the entire album of TDB; undoubtedly the most atmospheric haunting track from the band in years. This track is quintessential PF with a startling bell tolling effect and very emotive performance by Gilmour. The majestic closing section is an incredible performance by the band. The 8:30 version is way better of course but I like this shorter version as a quick medicinal dose of PF occasionally.

On the flip side we have the strong communication breakdown of 'Keep Talking', that features a convincing voice over by genius paraplegic scientist Stephen Hawking. This is one of the better songs on the album, a great B side by any measure.

This is one for collectors but good enough for all those who treasure awesome prog rock, served up on crackling black vinyl.