I have for the first time ever listened to Pink Floyd’s
universally acclaimed album “The Dark Side Of The Moon”. One thing that I like
is how all the songs fade into one another making the album feel as though it
is playing as one whole piece of music.
The album kicks off with “Speak To Me”, which contains many sound effects that are present throughout the entire album over a
bass drum pulse.
“On The Run” features an increased tempo on the hi-hat
accompanied by various synth sounds and guitar flanger effect and feedback
noises. There is no clear melody within this song.
“Time” starts with many
clock noises, and it contains a metronome type percussion in the beginning of
the song. The melody and vocals come in nearly 2 minutes into playtime. I also
find the chorus to be very interesting in “Time” as it changes the feel of the song from the verse.
“The Great Gig In The Sky”
starts with piano and includes slide guitar and a bass line. There is a clash
of instruments and voice singing done without any lyrics.
“Money” starts with
cash register noises. It has a very prominent bass line. The instruments seems
to be in different time signitures. The song also features saxophone and there
is a jam of instruments towards the end with guitar solo overdubs.
“Us And Then” features organ sounds along with softly played
guitars and drums. This is the only song where I noticed distinct dissonant
chords within the melody. Also, it contains two saxophone solos and a delay on
the vocals.
“Any Colour You Like” follows the beat of the ending of “Us
And Them” and uses synthesizers, bass, and multiple electric guitars
simultaneously. There are no vocals on this song.
“Brain Damage” features a hi-hat comprised tempo along with
picked guitar chords, vocals, organs, and drums. Backing choral voices make the
sound fuller during the chorus parts. There was a laughing sound that was
present throughout the album and the vocalist addresses that laughter as a
“lunatic in my head”. The song closes with the lyrics “Dark side of the moon”
and ends with synths, guitar, and the same hi-hat as in the beginning with
talking voices and the laughter.
The last track “Eclipse” begins strong with drums, bass, and
organs in the forefront as vocals come in quickly. The melody becomes intense
with guitar overdubs, strong backing voices, and simultaneous singing of the
lyrics. The melody ends early and a fading bass drum pulse brings an end to
this amazing album by Pink Floyd.
