Pink Floyd – A Momentary Lapse of Reason

• Category: Album

• Title: A Momentary Lapse of Reason

• Artist: Pink Floyd

• Released: September 7, 1987.

• Genres: Art Rock, Progressive Rock, Rock

Album Background

Release Date and Label

A Momentary Lapse of Reason was released on September 7, 1987, by EMI Records in the UK and Columbia Records in the US.

Artist Context

This album marked Pink Floyd’s first release following the departure of Roger Waters, who left the band in 1985. With Waters’ exit, the remaining members—David Gilmour, Nick Mason, and Richard Wright—took the lead in shaping the band’s future direction. The album represents a significant shift in the band’s dynamic and sound, as it was the first Pink Floyd album without Waters’ lyrical contributions and conceptual input.

Concept and Inspiration

Themes and Messages

The album explores themes of alienation, psychological struggle, and the search for meaning, continuing the band’s tradition of introspective and conceptual music. The title itself reflects the fleeting and often elusive nature of clarity and understanding in life. The album delves into personal and societal issues, often with a more introspective and personal tone compared to previous works.

Inspiration

The inspiration for the album came from the band’s experiences during and after Roger Waters’ departure. The remaining members sought to redefine Pink Floyd’s identity and sound while reflecting on their own personal and collective experiences. The album’s themes also reflect the broader cultural and political climate of the late 1980s.

Writing and Recording Process

Songwriting and Recording

The songwriting was primarily handled by David Gilmour and his collaborator, Anthony Moore. The recording process took place at various studios, including the Britannia Row Studios in London and the USS Enterprise in Los Angeles. The band employed advanced studio techniques and new technology to create a polished and contemporary sound, including the use of digital synthesizers and samplers.

Notable Collaborations

The album features contributions from several session musicians, including Tony Levin on bass guitar and Michael Kamen conducting the orchestral arrangements on certain tracks. This collaboration helped to expand the album’s sonic palette and bring a fresh dimension to the band’s sound.

Production Details

Producers and Sound

• Key Producers: The album was produced by David Gilmour, Bob Ezrin, and James Guthrie. Bob Ezrin, known for his work with Alice Cooper and Kiss, played a crucial role in shaping the album’s sound, helping to modernize Pink Floyd’s approach.
• Sound and Musical Style: A Momentary Lapse of Reason features a polished, radio-friendly sound with an emphasis on synthesizers, orchestral arrangements, and atmospheric effects. The album marks a departure from the more progressive rock style of earlier works, embracing a more mainstream rock sound while retaining the band’s signature atmospheric and introspective qualities.

Track-by-Track Analysis

• Track Listing:

  1. “Signs of Life”
  2. “Learning to Fly”
  3. “The Dogs of War”
  4. “One Slip”
  5. “On the Turning Away”
  6. “Yet Another Movie”
  7. “Round and Around”
  8. “A New Machine (Part 1)”
  9. “Terminal Frost”
  10. “A New Machine (Part 2)”
  11. “Sorrow”

Key Tracks:

• “Learning to Fly”: This track is the album’s lead single and became one of Pink Floyd’s most recognizable songs. It explores themes of self-discovery and personal growth, with its uplifting melody and reflective lyrics capturing a sense of liberation and hope. “Learning to Fly” was a commercial success and remains a staple in Pink Floyd’s live performances.
• “On the Turning Away”: This song is noted for its poignant lyrics and emotional depth, addressing issues of social injustice and personal responsibility. The track’s powerful vocal delivery by David Gilmour, combined with its evocative instrumentation, highlights the album’s thematic concern with societal issues and individual introspection.
• “One Slip”: Featuring a more rock-oriented sound, “One Slip” explores themes of temptation and the consequences of one’s actions. Its dynamic arrangement and catchy chorus showcase the band’s ability to blend introspective lyrics with engaging musical hooks.
• “Sorrow”: This track is notable for its use of a distinctive guitar sound and an expansive arrangement that includes a memorable guitar solo. “Sorrow” deals with themes of regret and loss, and its atmospheric production reflects the band’s ability to create a powerful emotional impact through their music.

Awards and Nominations

Awards and Nominations

A Momentary Lapse of Reason did not receive major awards but was well-received by critics and fans alike. The album marked a successful return for Pink Floyd and helped to reestablish their presence in the music industry after the departure of Roger Waters.

Sales and Charts

The album achieved commercial success, reaching number 3 on the UK Albums Chart and number 50 on the US Billboard 200. It was certified Platinum in the UK and Gold in the US. The album’s singles, particularly “Learning to Fly,” contributed to its commercial success.

Impact and Legacy

A Momentary Lapse of Reason played a crucial role in redefining Pink Floyd’s sound and identity after Roger Waters’ departure. The album’s success demonstrated the band’s ability to adapt and evolve while maintaining their core essence. It also paved the way for future albums and tours, including the successful A Delicate Sound of Thunder live album and tour. The album remains an important part of Pink Floyd’s discography, showcasing their resilience and creativity during a period of transition.

Conclusion

Summary

A Momentary Lapse of Reason represents a significant chapter in Pink Floyd’s history, marking their first album without Roger Waters and showcasing their ability to evolve and continue making impactful music. The album explores themes of alienation and self-discovery while embracing a more contemporary sound.

Final Thoughts

While A Momentary Lapse of Reason may not have the same conceptual depth as some of Pink Floyd’s earlier works, it stands as a testament to the band’s ability to adapt and thrive amidst change. The album’s blend of introspective lyrics and polished production reflects the band’s continued relevance and artistic vision. It remains a valuable part of Pink Floyd’s legacy and a significant milestone in their career.