A Momentary Lapse of Reason
Pink Floyd · 1987
51 min · 10 tracks · progressive rock
A lush, atmospheric journey balancing haunting melodies with reflective lyrics against a backdrop of synthesizers and soaring guitar solos.
Top tracks — play these first
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Signs of Life Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Learning to Fly — This track stands out as an anthem of self-discovery and liberation, combining catchy hooks with lyrics that explore themes of escapism and resilience.
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Sorrow — As the album's closing track, Sorrow encapsulates a sense of melancholy and introspection, showcasing Gilmour’s emotive guitar work paired with poignant lyrics about loss.
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On the Turning Away — This song reflects social consciousness, addressing themes of neglect and indifference while featuring soaring vocal performances that resonate deeply with listeners.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong melodies and production but reflects a transitional phase for the band.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a soundscape of ambient textures that gradually build into the first track, creating an immersive atmosphere.
- Several tracks feature layered guitar solos that intertwine with synthesizer melodies, particularly evident in 'Learning to Fly' and 'Sorrow'.
- The running time is punctuated by interludes, such as 'A New Machine, Part 1' and 'Part 2', which serve as transitions rather than standalone songs.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- wave-like pacing with resolution
- existential themes for deep thinking
- poignant melodies for reflective moments
- sonic exploration in solitude
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Revitalized Pink Floyd's presence post-Waters, gaining commercial success.
- Themes
- post-Waters transition· social alienation· expansive soundscapes
- Career context
- Released on September 8, 1987, A Momentary Lapse of Reason was Pink Floyd's first studio album after the departure of Roger Waters. At this point in their career, the band was navigating a new identity while leaning heavily on David Gilmour's vision, marking a significant shift from their earlier, more collaborative work.
- Stylistic neighbors
- King Crimson· Yes· Genesis
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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On the Turning Away
The narrative shifts to address societal apathy directly, emphasizing the need for empathy and awareness.
This direct address compels listeners to confront uncomfortable truths rather than retreating into escapism, enhancing the song's emotional impact.
Tracklist
- 1 Signs of Life Start here 4:24
- 2 Learning to Fly 4:53
- 3 The Dogs of War 6:09
- 4 One Slip 5:07
- 5 On the Turning Away 5:42
- 6 Yet Another Movie / Round and Around 7:28
- 7 A New Machine, Part 1 1:46
- 8 Terminal Frost 6:17
- 9 A New Machine, Part 2 0:38
- 10 Sorrow 8:46
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Outside
David Bowie
Explores existential themes with a rich, atmospheric sound and complex narratives.
So
Peter Gabriel
Combines expansive soundscapes with introspective lyrics about social alienation and personal struggles.
Spirit of Eden
Talk Talk
Shares a similar approach to sonic exploration, melding ambient textures with emotional depth.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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