Pink Floyd – More (EMI Columbia, 1969)
Pink Floyd’s More is their third studio album and debut soundtrack, released in 1969 by EMI Columbia in the UK. The album served as the soundtrack to Barbet Schroeder’s film of the same name, shot primarily in Ibiza, Spain, a hippy mecca at the time. Notably, it marks the band’s first album without Syd Barrett.
Before More, Pink Floyd had contributed to film music, including for the BBC and “The Committee” in 1967 and 1968 respectively. Schroeder, a Pink Floyd enthusiast, collaborated with the band, integrating their music directly into the film rather than as background score. Therefore, this is not a cinematic soundtrack, but rather a collection of songs with various moods. Recording at Pye Studios, London, took place in late January and early February 1969, led by engineer Brian Humphries. This marked the first production by Pink Floyd without Norman Smith and the first album sans Syd Barrett.
The album’s creation was swift, with most music composed and recorded within two weeks, adopting a semi-improvised approach. Bassist Roger Waters wrote the majority of the lyrics during breaks, while drummer Nick Mason and keyboardist Richard Wright co-wrote “Up The Khyber.” David Gilmour, Barrett’s replacement, assumed lead vocals throughout successfully.
More presents a diverse range of styles, from acoustic folk ballads like “Green is the Colour” to hard rock tracks such as “The Nile Song” and “Ibiza Bar” and a blues song called “More Blues.”
A standout gem on the record, “Cirrus Minor,” kicks off with its pioneering mix of proto-progressive rock elements. Anchored by mesmerizing organ work and punctuated by innovative sound effects, such as the charming bird songs.
Another notable highlight is the effortlessly cool “Crying Song,” characterized by its tranquil vocals and culminating in a sublime guitar solo.
More also includes experimental forays, including the psychedelic “Up the Khyber” and the rhythmic “Party Sequence.” Meanwhile, tracks like the haunting “Main Theme” highlight the band’s progressive inclinations, casting a spell with their otherworldly allure.
A sharp commentary on the music industry, “Cymbaline” stands out with its biting lyrics, lamenting the preoccupations of managers and agents ensnared by the trappings of fame.
Transporting listeners to the sun-soaked shores of a Spanish island, More embraces with the brief, evocative “Spanish Piece,” infused with the fiery spirit of flamenco.
Rounding off the album is the epic finale, “Dramatic Theme,” a progressive piece that leaves an indelible impression, cementing Pink Floyd’s status as musical trailblazers.
More’s cover, designed by Hipgnosis, features a surreal image from the film, reflecting its psychedelic essence. More achieved commercial success, reaching number 9 in the UK and attaining gold certification in the US in 1994. It underwent multiple reissues and digital remasters, ensuring its enduring presence in Pink Floyd’s discography. It was digitally remastered in 2011.
Musicians: Roger Waters on bass, tape effects, percussion; Richard Wright on Farfisa organ, piano, vibraphone, Hammond organ, backing vocals; David Gilmour on vocals, electric guitar, acoustic guitar, classical guitar, percussion; and Nick Mason on drums, bongos, percussion. Guest: Lindy Mason on tin whistle.
Buy More.