i've got to add a couple more points to the last post. for me, the key attraction of 'dark side' ain't really about the concepts explored by the lyrics & voices (not to say these don't add something intriguing to the whole thing), which kind of render it (or much of it) - i think - a concept album in many ways; it ain't about syd barret or even pink floyd; it ain't about prog rock or space rock per se.
for mine, it's all about the soundscapes on 'dark side'. it's about that subtle yet catchy slide guitar (or is it pedal stell even?) on the opening track - or in fact i think that is on the start of 'breathe'; it's about the build-up to the verse in 'time'; the catchy bass riff in 'money'; the sax solo in 'us & them'; and the moody interplay of vocals and piano on 'the great gig in the sky'. i think that surely most people couldn't listen to the latter and not experience at least some kind of visceral response.
could it all be considered a bit over-rated or self-indulgent? a bit of a toss at times, perhaps? it might be somewhat understandable if some were to take this or a similar viewpoint, particularly from the perspective of some decades subsequent to its release. you be the judge.
first & foremost, i like the sounds.
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