What makes Animals (Pink Floyd album) by Pink Floyd notable?

Animals is notable for its sharp critique of capitalist society, using animal metaphors to explore human behavior and greed. It received critical acclaim upon release and has since been recognized for its influence on the progressive rock genre, often cited by artists as a pivotal work that shaped the musical landscape of the late 1970s. Released on January 23, 1977, Animals followed Pink Floyd's monumental success with 'Wish You Were Here' and marked their transition towards a more politically charged sound. The album captures the band in a period of artistic evolution, as they began to grapple with themes of disillusionment and societal critique, paving the way for their later work on 'The Wall.'

How many songs are on Animals (Pink Floyd album)?

Animals (Pink Floyd album) has 4 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Animals (Pink Floyd album)

Pink Floyd · 1977

40 min · 4 tracks · progressive rock

A sprawling, concept-driven exploration of capitalism's beasts, blending progressive rock with biting social commentary.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Dogs — The album's centerpiece, 'Dogs' offers an intricate narrative about ruthless business practices, showcasing David Gilmour's guitar prowess and elaborate composition.
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Pigs (Three Different Ones) — This track employs biting satire to critique various societal figures, featuring powerful vocal performances that drive home its pointed message.
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Sheep — With its climactic build-up and intense lyrical content, 'Sheep' encapsulates themes of rebellion against conformity and manipulation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

81 /100

Summit

Higher than 100% of albums we've rated

The album's ambitious structure and sharp social critique mark it as a significant entry in Pink Floyd's discography.

What we noticed

The album features three lengthy tracks that each exceed ten minutes, allowing for extended instrumental passages and thematic development.
Each track employs a distinct musical motif that reflects the animal metaphor it represents, with 'Dogs' featuring complex guitar solos and 'Pigs' incorporating a more aggressive tone.
The final track, 'Pigs on the Wing (Part Two)', serves as a soft, acoustic conclusion that contrasts sharply with the preceding heavier compositions.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 9/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Represents an ambitious concept and political critique, following their iconic works.
Themes: capitalist critique· societal elites· oppressive forces
Career context: Released on January 23, 1977, Animals followed Pink Floyd's monumental success with 'Wish You Were Here' and marked their transition towards a more politically charged sound. The album captures the band in a period of artistic evolution, as they began to grapple with themes of disillusionment and societal critique, paving the way for their later work on 'The Wall.'
Stylistic neighbors: King Crimson· Yes· Genesis