Obscured by Clouds
Pink Floyd · 1972
40 min · 10 tracks · progressive rock
A dreamlike blend of atmospheric soundscapes and introspective lyrics that encapsulate the essence of early 70s progressive rock.
Top tracks — play these first
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Obscured by Clouds Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Wot’s… Uh the Deal — This track features a contemplative tone and intricate guitar work, showcasing themes of uncertainty and the passage of time that resonate throughout the album.
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Stay — As a poignant closer, this track captures emotional vulnerability with its haunting melodies and reflective lyrics, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.
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Burning Bridges — With its rhythmic drive and evocative lyrics about loss and nostalgia, this song encapsulates the album's exploration of fleeting moments and human experience.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's atmospheric soundscapes and cohesive flow mark it as a significant work in Pink Floyd's catalog.
What we noticed
- The album features extended instrumental passages that create a flowing, dreamlike atmosphere, particularly in tracks like 'Obscured by Clouds' and 'Absolutely Curtains'.
- Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies that blend seamlessly with the instrumentation, enhancing the ethereal quality of the music.
- 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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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
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
- steady pacing for reflective moments
- cinematic soundscapes for daydreaming
- gradual build towards emotional climax
- introspective listening during solitude
Maybe skip if you
- seek instant gratification
- prefer upbeat party tracks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Experimental — Marks a shift towards cinematic music and showcases atmospheric soundscapes.
- Themes
- cinematic soundscapes· nostalgic reflection
- Career context
- Released in June 1972, Obscured by Clouds served as a soundtrack for the French film La Vallée, marking Pink Floyd's transition into cinematic music. This album followed their breakthrough work, The Dark Side of the Moon, solidifying their artistic direction at a pivotal moment in their career.
- Stylistic neighbors
- King Crimson· Yes· Genesis
Tracklist
- 1 Obscured by Clouds Start here 3:04
- 2 When You’re In 2:30
- 3 Burning Bridges 3:29
- 4 The Gold It’s in The… 3:07
- 5 Wot’s… Uh the Deal 5:07
- 6 Mudmen 4:20
- 7 Childhood’s End 4:31
- 8 Free Four 4:15
- 9 Stay 4:05
- 10 Absolutely Curtains 5:52
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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