Pink Floyd - Soundtrack From The Film "More" (LP)

Pink Floyd - Soundtrack From The Film "More" LP Vinyl Record

Pink Floyd's "Soundtrack from the Film 'More'" is an intriguing piece in the band's discography, released on June 13, 1969. This album marks a significant point in Pink Floyd's evolution, as it was their first full-length soundtrack and their first album without founding member Syd Barrett, who had left the band the previous year. The album was created as the soundtrack for Barbet Schroeder's film "More," a story about a young German student who becomes embroiled in the drug culture of Ibiza.

"More" is often seen as a transitional album for Pink Floyd, showcasing their movement from the psychedelic rock of the late 1960s towards the more progressive and experimental sounds that would define their later work. The album features a mix of instrumental tracks and songs with lyrics, reflecting the diverse moods and scenes of the film. It was recorded at Pye Studios in London and produced by the band themselves, which was a new experience for them at the time.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "The Nile Song," which is notable for its heavy, almost proto-metal sound, a departure from the band's earlier, more ethereal work. This track, along with "Ibiza Bar," showcases a rawer, more aggressive side of Pink Floyd that wasn't as prominent in their previous releases. In contrast, "Cirrus Minor" opens the album with a gentle, pastoral feel, featuring bird sounds and a dreamy organ backdrop, setting a tranquil tone that is quickly disrupted by the heavier tracks.

The instrumental pieces, such as "Main Theme" and "Quicksilver," highlight the band's ability to create atmospheric soundscapes, a skill that would become a hallmark of their later albums. These tracks are rich with experimental sounds and textures, using a variety of instruments and studio effects to evoke the film's psychedelic and sometimes unsettling atmosphere.

Critically, "More" received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics appreciated the album's experimental nature and its role as a film soundtrack, while others found it less cohesive compared to Pink Floyd's other works. However, over time, "More" has gained a certain cult status among fans, appreciated for its rawness and the glimpse it offers into the band's transitional phase.

The album did not achieve the commercial success of later Pink Floyd albums, but it did reach number 9 on the UK Albums Chart, indicating a solid performance for a soundtrack album. It also helped establish Pink Floyd's reputation for creating compelling film music, a path they would continue with "Obscured by Clouds" and "The Wall."

In terms of cultural significance, "More" is an interesting artifact of its time, capturing the late 1960s counterculture and the burgeoning drug scene. The film itself, while not as well-known today, was part of a wave of European cinema exploring these themes, and Pink Floyd's music added a layer of depth and emotion to the visual narrative.

Overall, "Soundtrack from the Film 'More'" is a fascinating listen for those interested in the evolution of Pink Floyd's sound. It may not have the polish or the iconic status of "The Dark Side of the Moon" or "Wish You Were Here," but it offers a raw and honest look at a band in transition, experimenting with new sounds and ideas. For fans of Pink Floyd, "More" is a must-listen, providing insight into the band's early development and their journey towards becoming one of the most influential rock bands of all time.