Emerging from the whimsical, sometimes sad, but always intriguing story of original Pink Floyd songwriter/singer Syd Barrett are the man’s amazing songs. Whether led into madness, a late 60s ennui or a sickening disregard for music stardom, Barrett continues to be a figure of mystery having first led then been fired from a band that always seemed to court mystery. With the release of An Introduction To Syd Barrett, the mystery might clear slightly as the songwriting genius of Syd Barrett is apparent through this 18-song career retrospective.
The disc begins with early Floyd tunes, like “Arnold Layne,” “See Emily Play,” “Apples And Oranges” and a 2010 mix of “Matilda Mother” — all wrapped around Barrett’s amazing gift for nursery rhyme wordplay. Barrett’s solo stuff from The Madcap Laughs and Barrett albums is next. Both feature the guitarist who replaced Barrett in Pink Floyd — David Gilmour — on a multitude of instruments as well as behind the boards. Pink Floyd bassist Roger Waters co-produced The Madcap Laughs. Many of the songs are simply Barrett meandering on his acoustic with additional tracks added later to try and flesh out what were essentially demos. Of course, Barrett’s on-again / off-again state of mind during these recordings are another story altogether.
Still, there are some bright and amazing moments. “Dark Globe” certainly speaks to Barrett’s mental state, as he sings about not being around for a girl he loves. “Octopus” features a vocal struggling to keep pace with an odd meter. “Dominoes” is here, as is a full band on “Baby Lemonade” and the absolutely stunningly sardonic “Bob Dylan Blues,” Here is where Barrett seems to sum up the music business. We all know what happened after that. For the curious to ponder, An Introduction To Syd Barrett is indeed a great introduction to a musical genius who left the rock world way too early. .
~ Ralph Greco, Jr.
