What makes Works by Pink Floyd notable?

'Works' is significant as it represents Pink Floyd's first official compilation, introducing their music to a new generation amidst the changing landscape of rock music. The album format allowed it to reach No. 12 on the UK Albums Chart, highlighting the enduring popularity of their earlier material, despite mixed critical reception. Released in 1983, 'Works' arrived during a transitional phase for Pink Floyd, following the commercial success of 'The Wall' (1979) and before the band’s major lineup changes. This album served as a compilation that revisited key tracks from their earlier works, allowing new audiences to engage with their formative sound while reflecting on their evolving identity.

Works works well if you're into wave-like pacing that ebbs, dynamic progression with peaks and immersive journey through nostalgia.

How many songs are on Works?

Works has 10 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Works

Pink Floyd · 1983

41 min · 10 tracks · progressive rock · psychedelic rock · blues rock

A curated blend of psychedelic and progressive rock showcasing Pink Floyd's experimental sound across their early catalog.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

wave-like pacing that ebbs
dynamic progression with peaks
immersive journey through nostalgia
curated exploration of sound
thought-provoking moments of reflection

Maybe skip if you want

prefer straightforward, quick listens
seek instant gratification in tracks

Where this album fits

Themes: mental health struggles· psychedelic soundscapes
Career context: Released in 1983, 'Works' arrived during a transitional phase for Pink Floyd, following the commercial success of 'The Wall' (1979) and before the band’s major lineup changes. This album served as a compilation that revisited key tracks from their earlier works, allowing new audiences to engage with their formative sound while reflecting on their evolving identity.
Stylistic neighbors: King Crimson· Yes· Genesis
Sounds like this from elsewhere: In the Court of the Crimson King by King Crimson — Shares a vivid blend of psychedelia and progressive rock with complex arrangements and emotional depth.

Fragile by Yes — Offers intricate musicianship and expansive soundscapes, exploring similar themes of introspection and existentialism.

The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway by Genesis — Combines theatrical storytelling with rich, atmospheric instrumentation reflecting mental and emotional struggles.

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Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 One of These Days 6:00
2 Arnold Layne 2:53
3 Fearless (interpolating “You’ll Never Walk Alone”) 5:38
4 Brain Damage 3:43
5 Eclipse 2:06
6 Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun 5:22
7 See Emily Play 2:46
8 Several Species of Small Furry Animals Gathered Together in a Cave and Grooving With a Pict 4:39
9 Free Four 4:08
10 Embryo 4:41

What to play next

Listen next

A Momentary Lapse of Reason

1987

Go back to

The Final Cut

1983

Full Pink Floyd discography Where to start with Pink Floyd Artists like Pink Floyd

blues rock progressive rock psychedelic rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata