Ummagumma

If there is a mis-step during Pink Floyd's career it is probably 1969's "Ummagumma". This is a 2 disc set. The first disc is a "new" studio recording while the 2nd disc is a live set. The band was obviously trying to find themselves as Syd continued to fade into a non-factor.  Each band member was obviously working hard at this point. The first disc is basically separated into 4 parts, with one "musical event" for each per band member.

At the time this album actually performed well and sold many copies.  However, since then it is probably the least liked release by Pink Floyd.  The album does have a great cover and the live disc somewhat saves it but it is by far the band's weakest entry.  David Gilmour has been heard actually saying that "he just bullshitted through his part" on the album.  The weakness of the first disc is probably the result of each band member simply working on their own to come up with their material.  

The first disc is an example of the old saying that "the sum is greater then the parts".  It was never more true then Disc 1 of "Ummugamma".  

Things get a lot more interesting and enjoyable on the second disc which is a live set of their older material. Here you get live versions of "Astronomy Domine", "Careful With That Axe Eugine", "Set The Controls For The Heart of the Sun" and "A Saucerful of Secrets".  Each one of these make the album a must have for the Pink Floyd fan.   I won't waste anyone's time talking about my favorite songs on this one as these 4 are it.  The first disc is a challenge to get through.

My Rating

As a whole the rating is a 2.5 however rated individually Disc 1 is a 2 while the live disc is a 4.5.