s e a n

After a four year absence (in which Peter Hammill released a number of solo albums), Van der Graaf Generator reformed in 1975 to record this masterpiece. Consisting of four approximately equal-length songs, there is a uniformity in mood that provides the semblance of a central concept, even if there isn't one that I can see. Three of the four songs are heavy in fantasy imagery, although in at least one case ("Scorched Earth") an argument could be made that said imagery is metaphorical. Indeed, parts of each song read like a manifesto, as Hammill breaks from the scenario in question to sneak in a pointed message. Musically, the album is led by Banton's organ and Jackson's sax, providing contrasting colors to the sound. Banton tends to lend the air of brooding and tension, while Jackson erupts into aggressive outbursts of angst. Jackson also provides a bit of flute playing to "The Undercover Man" and "The Sleepwalkers" when a softer approach is needed. Evans refuses to stay in the background, punctuating each Jackson sax burst with machine-gun staccato. The last three songs all feature killer extended instrumentals, my favorite of which would have to be the 5/4 explosion at the end of "Scorched Earth", or maybe the alternating 8 and 10 of "The Sleepwalkers" which crescendos into the nastiest prog rawk you've ever seen. Hard to say. Godbluff captures the band at their peak, with a mature lyrical contribution from Hammill combined with the musical pyrotechnics of which the band was capable. The combined inspiration of the four musicians creates a synergy that elevates this head and shoulders above any other VdGG release, even Pawn Hearts. Essential. review by Sean McFee — undated —

j o e

After a hiatus lasting several years, Van Der Graaf Generator coalesced back into shape with Peter Hammill at the helm. With the exception of perhaps more facial hair, it was as if they had never been away, for none of the band's power had diminished in their hibernation. Perhaps not too surprisingly, as the band's other members contributed to Hammill's intervening solo projects. All tracks display the trademark Van Der Graaf sound, with Hugh Banton's growling yet clear Hammond tones locking in with David Jackson's sax through some intricate but not impossible arrangements. For better or worse, above it all wails Hammill's voice, still milking every drop of melodrama he can. "The Undercover Man" starts off quiet and eerie, building tension until eventually resolving into a notably cathartic chorus. "Scorched Earth" features yet another classic Van Der Graaf riff, and to me recalls another favorite track of theirs, "Man-Erg" from Pawn Hearts. "Arrow" is the only track on here that I could live without, finding Hammill a bit too abrasive. "The Sleepwalkers" fares considerably better, though I find it not quite as engaging as the first two tracks. As for many of the rock albums recorded around this time, the sound quality for Godbluff ain't so hot. Still, this is an album that is worthy of the Van Der Graaf name, and is a welcome purchase for both fans of the band and VDG newbies. review by Joe McGlinchey — undated —